Cetacean is the collective noun used to describe all 90 species of whales, dolphins and porpoises.
The word cetacean has its origins in Latin (Cetus) referring to a large sea creature and Greek (Ketos) meaning whale or sea monster.
Having evolved around 50 million years ago, today they are separated into two distinct types - Mysticeti (baleen whales) and Odonotoceti (toothed whales).
The baleen whales are made up of most of the larger whales, such as the blue whale and humpback whale. One notable exception is the sperm whale which is a toothed whale.
The other toothed whales include all dolphins, porpoises and beaked whales. Beluga whales and narwhals also belong to this grouping.
What are the differences between whales, dolphins and porpoises?
From the enormous blue whale to the tiny vaquita, they share many characteristics but also have some distinctive features which set them apart.
Please help us save dolphins
By adopting a whale or dolphin, by making a donation, or by fundraising for WDC, you can help us provide a safe future for these amazing creatures.
Adopt
Adopt a dolphin and help us protect these amazing creatures.
Donate
Your gifts help us take action for whales and dolphins.
Fundraise
Run, bake, walk, cycle… what could you do for whales and dolphins?