Classification: 

The Clymene dolphin was only recently classified as a separate species.

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Appearance: 

As might be expected, the Clymene dolphin shares many characteristics with the spinner dolphin.

However, it is more robust and its beak, while distinct, is slightly shorter than that of its close relative.

The dorsal fin is triangular to slightly falcate and the flippers are slender and sharply pointed.

The flukes have concave trailing edges with pointed tips and a distinct notch in the middle.

The Clymene dolphin has a distinctive tri-colour pattern featuring a dark grey cape which dips down to create an S shape. It has pale grey sides, and the chin and belly are white, sometimes with a pinkish tinge.

The medium-length beak has a black tip and ‘lips', and a black stripe along the top.

Additional stripes and markings on the face can give the Clymene dolphin a moustached look.

There is also a dark grey eye-flipper stripe.

 

 

Behaviour: 

Clymene dolphins are the only species besides spinner dolphins that leap out of the water and spin on the longitudinal axis, though it performs fewer rotations.

It breaches and bow rides, occasionally approaching boats.

It is thought to feed on small fish including lantern fish and squid.

When it is feeding it often associates with other small dolphins such as the common and spinner dolphins.

It is generally found in groups of fewer than 50, preferring deep waters and is not generally seen close to shore.