The striped dolphin (Stenella coeruleoalba) is a remarkable marine mammal celebrated for its dynamic movements and striking appearance.

Found in tropical to warm temperate waters worldwide, this species is among the most abundant dolphins, often captivating observers with its acrobatics and unique coloration.

About the Species

Striped dolphins are known for their sociable and energetic behavior. Often seen in cohesive pods of 25 to 100 individuals, they perform breathtaking leaps and breaches, sometimes soaring over 20 feet above the water. One of their distinctive moves is roto-tailing—spinning their tails mid-air as they jump. These dolphins thrive in upwelling areas and convergence zones, where nutrient-rich waters attract an abundance of prey.

Appearance

Striped dolphins are medium-sized cetaceans with a sleek, robust body. Males can grow up to 9 feet and weigh about 350 pounds, while females are slightly smaller, reaching 8 feet and 330 pounds. Their striking coloration features:

Bold, thin stripes extending from the eye to the flipper and down to the region.

A dark blue or gray dorsal side with a lighter bluish-gray shoulder blaze curving toward the dorsal fin.

A pale underside ranging from white to pinkish tones.

This unique pattern distinguishes them from other dolphin species and gives them their name. Juveniles and calves tend to have subtler markings than adults.

Behavior and Diet

Striped dolphins are social, athletic, and agile. They swim rapidly, often referred to as "streakers" by researchers due to their ability to evade boats swiftly. While they primarily form pods of 25-100 individuals, they can occasionally be seen in groups numbering thousands.

Their diet is diverse, consisting of fish and cephalopods like squid and octopus. These dolphins are adept divers, capable of reaching depths of 2,300 feet to hunt for prey across various water columns.

Habitat and Range

Striped dolphins inhabit warm oceanic waters (52–84°F) and are found in tropical to warm temperate regions. Their range includes:

Waters off Greenland, Europe, the Mediterranean, Japan, and South Africa.

The Gulf of Mexico, the U.S. west coast, and Hawaiian waters.

Areas beyond their typical range, such as southern Greenland and Prince Edward Island, Canada.

They prefer deep waters seaward of the continental shelf, often linked to nutrient-rich zones that support abundant marine life.

Lifespan and Reproduction

Striped dolphins can live up to 58 years. Females reach maturity between 5 and 13 years, and males between 7 and 15 years. After a gestation of about one year, females give birth to a single calf measuring 3 feet long. Calves nurse for 12 to 18 months, with births occurring every 3 to 4 years.

Threats

Entanglement in Fishing Gear

Striped dolphins often become bycatch in fishing operations, including gillnets, trawls, and purse-seines.

Disease

In the 1990s, a morbillivirus outbreak killed over 1,000 individuals in the Mediterranean. Pollution and reduced prey availability may exacerbate their vulnerability to disease.

Hunting

Striped dolphins have historically been targeted in drive hunts, particularly in Japan, Sri Lanka, and the Caribbean. In the mid-20th century, up to 21,000 were killed annually.

While not endangered, striped dolphins face significant challenges from human activities and environmental changes. NOAA Fisheries and global organizations continue to monitor populations, mitigate bycatch, and reduce habitat degradation to ensure their future.

Lykkers, these remarkable creatures symbolize the vibrancy of marine life, reminding us of the importance of preserving our oceans. With ongoing conservation efforts, we can help ensure that the striped dolphin continues to leap across the world's waters for generations to come.

15 Facts about Striped Dolphin that you didn't know

Video by bioexpedition