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Physeteridae
Sperm Whales
3
Number of resurrected species:
Family
Order
Class
Physeteridae
Artiodactyla
Mammalia
Description
The family of Sperm Whales are a still extant family of large toothed whales of which the Sperm Whale is the only surviving member. Several extinct genuses are known since the end of the Oligocene. In general, they are characterized by their large size, large jaws with sharp teeth and a robust build. They are strictly carnivorous, feeding on many prey species like fish, squid and other marine mammals.
Distribution & Fossil evidence
The current distribution of the Sperm Whale is worldwide and fossils of its extinct relatives have been found all over the globe too. They flourished during the Miocene and were a common sight during that time. The first members of the family resembled a Killer Whale with a long snout.
Species
There are several genera and species known within the family of Physeteridae.
Included genera
Zygophyseter, Acrphyseter, Aulophyseter
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