Abstract: Anomalous pigmentations have been recorded in many cetacean species. However, typically only one variation is reported from a population at a time (e.g., an albino). Here we record a spectrum of pigmentation from common dolphins (Delphinus sp.) off northern New Zealand. All-black, dark-morph, pale-morph, and all-white individuals, as well as variations between these have been recorded. Pale-coloured pectoral flippers are prevalent, and a number of individuals with white “helmets” have been observed.

Key Words: COMMON DOLPHIN; DELPHINUS DELPHIS; DELPHINUS CAPENSIS; ANOMALOUS PIGMENTATION; TAXONOMY; PECTORAL FLIPPER; NEW ZEALAND

Document Type: Research article

DOI: 10.1578/AM.31.1.2005.43

Page Numbers: 43 – 51