What inaccuracy does the common name of Pseudorca crassidens suggest regarding its kinship?
Answer
It suggests a direct relation to the true killer whale.
Despite being classified within the oceanic dolphin family, the common name 'false killer whale' erroneously implies a close evolutionary or behavioral relationship with the true killer whale. While both are toothed whales, the false killer whale exhibits significant differences in diet and typical prey size compared to the orca. Their feeding scope centers on smaller items like fish and squid, whereas the namesake orca targets much larger marine mammals. This common naming convention reflects a superficial resemblance or shared predatory drive rather than strict taxonomic closeness.
Related Questions
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