Description
The overall body shape of the strap-toothed whale is fairly typical for a mesoplodont, except for the large size. Male specimens have large and peculiar teeth even for the genus; they are large straps, sometimes over 30 centimetres (1 foot) in length, which grow over the jaw at a 45 degree angle and nearly close it. The teeth also have dorsally projecting denticles, and are still apparently used for fighting. Barnacles quite frequently are found on the teeth, as well. Why the species would grow teeth that severely cut back on the size of prey it can consume is uncertain. The melon is somewhat bulbous, and blends in to the beak shortly before the strap teeth. The beak itself is fairly long, with a relatively straight mouthline. The coloration of this species is also unusual for a mesoplodont, since it is rather bold; most of the body is black except for a white areas on the front of the beak, the throat, an area behind the head in a shape reminiscent of a cape, and near the genitals. Juveniles do not have this coloration and are typically dark above and light below. Scars and cookie cutter shark bites are also present. Males can reach around 5.9 metres (19 feet 6 inches), whereas females reach 6.2 metres (20 feet) and likely weigh around 1000-1300 kilograms (2200-2900 pounds), indicating they are probably the largest species in the genus. Newborn calves may be up to 2.8 metres (9 feet) in length.
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