Classification: 

The two 'populations' have recently been formally recognised as separate species; S. fluviatalis, otherwise known as the tucuxi, is a freshwater species whilst S. guianensis is marine, and now known as the Guiana dolphin. 

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Appearance: 

Individuals in the genus Sotalia are similar in overall appearance to the bottlenose dolphin although they are smaller, have a low triangular dorsal fin, broad flippers, and a narrow more pronounced beak.

Colouration ranges from blue to grey with a lighter underside of white, grey, or pink.

The tucuxi is generally smaller than the Guiana dolphin with individuals in the coastal populations up to 30% larger, although where their range overlaps 

 

 

Behaviour: 

Tucuxi are usually found in small groups of only a few individuals although they can also be seen in larger groups.

They are extremely sociable and perform impressive acrobatics, including spyhopping, lobtailing, flipper slapping, and porpoising.

They are, however, not known to bow-ride, are shy and difficult to approach. They make short dives, usually lasting 30 seconds to one minute.

Tucuxi can often be found in mixed groups with boto, and as the only other cetacean species sharing the same habitat.