Home >> Science & Nature >> Nature

How to See the Differences Between a Dolphin and a Shark

Dolphins and sharks are amazing and intriguing creatures of the sea. They even tend to seem anatomically similar at first glance; but this is where the similarity ends. To begin with, sharks are cold-blooded creatures, while dolphins are warm-blooded mammals. However, several subtle physical differences can help you differentiate between these sea creatures. If you are in waters that are inhabited by dolphins and sharks, you must take preventive measures by learning to differentiate the human-friendly dolphins from sharks who can pose a threat to humans.

Instructions

- 1
  Observe the shape of the dorsal fin. A dolphin's dorsal fin has a curved tip, while a shark's is triangular-shaped.
- 2
  Count the dorsal fins. Dolphins have one dorsal fin on their back. Sharks have a secondary smaller dorsal fin closer to the tail.
- 3
  Look at the tail orientation and tail movement while the animal is in motion. Dolphins have horizontally positioned tails, while the sharks' tails are vertically oriented. Dolphins glide in the water by moving their horizontal tails up and down. Sharks propel themselves by moving their vertical tails from side to side.
- 4
  Check the area near the head. If you observe slash-like gills the animal is a shark and uses the gills to breathe. Dolphins will not have gills, as they are mammals and breathe through their lungs.

Nature