Orcas are powerful predators that hunt in the ocean. They work together to catch big fish like whale sharks. In the Gulf of California, a group of orcas has a clever strategy for hunting whale sharks. They stun the sharks, flip them over, and go for their liver. The liver is full of nutrients that orcas like to eat.
These orcas are specialists in hunting sharks and rays. They have been seen hunting different kinds of fish for years. Scientists think they are learning from each other to become better hunters. This group of orcas might become a new type of orca, hunting mainly sharks and rays.
Even though it’s tough for the whale sharks, it’s interesting to study how orcas hunt. Researchers want to learn more about these orcas and their hunting habits. By studying them, we can understand more about the secret lives of these amazing ocean creatures.
Frontiers in Marine Science published the research about the orcas hunting whale sharks.
Vocabulary List:
- Predators /ˈprɛd.ə.tərz/ (noun): Animals that hunt and kill other animals for food.
- Strategy /ˈstræt.ə.dʒi/ (noun): A plan of action designed to achieve a specific goal.
- Nutrients /ˈnjuː.tri.ənts/ (noun): Substances that provide nourishment essential for growth and the maintenance of life.
- Specialists /ˈspɛʃ.əl.ɪsts/ (noun): Individuals who focus on a specific area of study or profession.
- Researchers /rɪˈsɜːr.tʃərz/ (noun): Individuals who conduct systematic investigations to establish facts or principles.
- Habit /ˈhæb.ɪt/ (noun): A routine behavior that is repeated regularly and tends to occur subconsciously.
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