Whales as oceanic engineers
On this page, you can find short numeral descriptions of all large whale species existing. It shows a picture, the global distribution, the total numbers, what they feed on, their impact on our world, and our impact on these animals. When you want to learn more about a specific whale species just click on the name and you will be directed to a specific page with a larger description.
Picture of species
Global distribution
Numbers
Role in the ecosystem
Threats & protection
Blue whale (Balaenoptera musculus)
Pre whaling time 340,240
Current: 4,272 (2001)
Life span: 90 years
The blue whale mainly feeds on krill.
Humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae)
Pre whaling 231,700
Current number: 33.000 – 35.000 worldwide (2011)
Calving every 2-3 years
Life span 50 years
They feed on small fish and krill
Small fish and krill
Brydes whale (Balaenoptera edeni)
Growing number. Species with highest potential
Sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus)
1970’s 1.900.000
Recent 300,000
Life span 90 years
Sperm whales feed on large squids and octopuses.
Fin whale (Balaenoptera physalis)
North Atlantic, North Pacific, Southern Hemishpere
119.000 (probably less now)
They have a lifespan of 85 – 90 years.
They migrate. Feed mainly on krill and other crustaceans, but also on fish and squid.
Entanglement, vessel strikes, lack of prey due overfishing, pollution.