Whale Expert
Photograph by Robyn Angliss
National
Marine Mammal Laboratory
Alaska
Fisheries Science Center
You are in charge of being an
expert in the general traits and characteristics of Beluga whales as well
as understanding their eating habits and their life span. In order to understand
your role better, read the following summaries and driving questions pertaining
to your tasks during the creation of your group's proposal:
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It is your duty to research and logically
decide on appropriate sizes (length and weight) for the 18-month-old Beluga
whale. During your research be sure to pay attention to the units; you
should be using US Customary units (length: inches, feet, yards, centimeters,
and meters; weight/mass: ounces, pounds, grams, and kilograms). You must
be aware of the changes in size as age progresses.
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Still focusing on the Beluga whale at
18 months, research what he eats every day. Keep in mind that he is only
a baby, but he will soon grow to adult size. You must be aware of the changes
in diet as age progresses.
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What are the general physical characteristics
of Beluga whales? Do they change as ages progresses? If so, do you need
to take this into account when creating his habitat?
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Now it is time to think ahead! Your
Beluga whale is 18 months when you find him. Your research must include
the size and eating habits of a growing whale. In order for your group
to create an adequate tank, you must understand and report back to your
group how big he could possibly get. What will change in his eating habits?
How much will he grow?
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In order to provide the best habitat
for the whale, you must know how long he is expected to live. Are their
any illnesses or improper care that could harm or even kill the whale?
What must you do to be sure his habitat is safe and healthy?
The following links will aid you
in your research. They have been chosen for you because of the depth and
breadth of information they contain. Use your expertise wisely to choose
the statistics about the whale (baby and adult) so that your group can
design the best and most appropriate proposal.