Pinniped

/pˈɪnaɪpt/

Pinniped

a group of marine mammals including seals, sea lions, and walruses known for their streamlined bodies, flipper-like limbs, and ability to thrive in both water and on land

synonyms : pinnatiped

pinniped mammal

What is a "pinniped"?

A pinniped is a group of marine mammals that includes seals, sea lions, and walruses. They are characterized by their streamlined bodies, flipper-like limbs, and ability to thrive both in the water and on land. Pinnipeds have adapted to their aquatic environment with features such as a layer of blubber for insulation, specialized limbs for swimming, and the ability to hold their breath for extended periods of time. They are found in various parts of the world, from the Arctic to the Antarctic, and are known for their remarkable diving and hunting abilities. Pinnipeds are an important part of marine ecosystems and are protected under various conservation laws to ensure their survival in the wild.

Examples

1. And compared to other mammals like your cat, pinnipeds have about ten times more nerve endings per whisker.

2. Toothed whales and pinnipeds, like seals and sea lions, might have competed with the giant penguins for food.

3. These are two eyes from a walrus and a walrus is a pinniped, they hunt under water using vision.

4. Other animals, even other pinnipeds, have smooth, cylindrical whiskers.