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Scientists Declare Bigg's and Resident Orcas Distinct Species Based on New Evidence

A groundbreaking study reveals genetic, behavioral, and morphological differences between two types of orcas, proposing formal recognition of their distinct species status.

  • Researchers have identified Bigg's killer whales and resident killer whales as two separate species, diverging around 300,000 years ago.
  • The discovery is based on comprehensive data, including genetic, morphological, behavioral, and acoustic evidence.
  • This classification could have significant conservation implications, especially for the endangered Southern Resident killer whales.
  • The proposed names for the new species are Orcinus rectipinnus for Bigg's orcas and Orcinus ater for resident orcas, following historical nomenclature.
  • The Society for Marine Mammalogy will vote on the official recognition of these species in the coming months.
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