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The earliest ancestor of the whale. A quadrupedal mammal with a size similar to a modern-day wolf. -
An evolution of the Pakicetus in order to hunt more efficiently underwater. Gained a wider tail and a more streamlined body, as well as shifting the hind legs to act as flippers. -
A large leap from the Ambulocetus Natan. A shorter, more powerful neck is developed, muscles are present in the tail, and hind legs are longer and more flipper like. The kidney develops a method of filtering out saltwater, allowing for extended periods of time underwater. -
An evolution of the Rodhocetus that makes it large enough to me considered a saurus. The Basilosaurus is longer in shape, has enhanced eyesight, and improved underwater hearing. -
Scientists believed that the basilosaurus died out 36 million years ago.
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After a 6 million year dark period, the Basilosaurus returns as the Ancient Whale. At this time, the Megalodon is their main predator, so they flee to colder waters to avoid the Megalodon. -
An evolution of the Prehistoric Whale that adapted to hunt in darker, colder waters. Developed echolocation to navigate waters that they could not see in. -
over the last 30 million years, whales have evolved into the over 80 species present today. Below are a few members of the whale family. -
Orca Whales, or as they're also called, Killer Whales, are the largest member of the dolphin family. In captivity they live anywhere from 10 to 45 years. -
The Sperm Whale is the largest toothed whale, and the largest predator in the whale family. The Sperm Whale gets its name from its spermaceti, a waxy substance found in their heads that is used for lamps and candles. -
Although it may not seem like it, the Dolphin is part of the whale family. Related to the Orca Whale, they have the same traits as a whale, such as two front legs and a blowhole, as they cannot breathe fully underwater.