Beluga whales are small, white whales that live in the cold waters throughout the Arctic and some subarctic locations. Cetaceans include all whales, dolphins and porpoises. Beluga whales live in the high latitudes of the northern hemisphere in cold Arctic and sub-Arctic waters. Belugas, like the other ice whales (narwhal and bowhead), depend on sea ice for protection from predatory killer whales, which are an increasing threat as sea ice … Quizlet flashcards, activities and games help you improve your grades. Hypothetically speaking, if they could live in freshwater most species would be to big and would deplete their food supply long before it would have time to replenish as well as not having the room they need not only in circumference be depth. So pound for pound, whales don't need to take in as much water to stay healthy as other species do. Belugas are social, and form groups called pods. The average lifespan of a Beluga in the wild is thought to be between 35 to 50 years. However, there are some creatures in our freshwater seas with oceanic counterparts. Thank goodness, since many whales weigh as much as 50 tons. (499-1143 kg) and 11-15 feet (3.4-4.6 m) Diet It's because their bodies have adapted to conserve water. Some even swim far up rivers. There are no whales in Lake Superior, big or small. Genetic research has determined that there are five beluga whale populations within U.S. waters: Cook Inlet, Bristol Bay, eastern Bering Sea, eastern Chukchi Sea and Beaufort Sea. They can be found in a variety of habitats, from deep offshore to shallow bays. In fact, in 1861 somewhat attempted just that, a man called P.T. How long do Beluga Whales live? ALERT: After careful consideration, we have made the decision to close Georgia Aquarium to public guests. They died 2 days later, although it's questionable whether it was the fresh water that killed them or the shock of capture and transport. Beluga whales are one of the main species in the ocean and in aquariums for many years. If you spot whale activity, let us know by filling out the form on the right! Reports of whales in Lake Michigan are also patently untrue. The reason saltwater fish can't live in freshwater tanks is not because they breathe water. Size 1100-2500 lbs. We continue to closely monitor this ever-evolving situation around COVID-19 with the ongoing commitment to the health and wellbeing of our guests, staff, volunteers and animals. How Beluga Whales have Adapted to their Environment By zteve t evans Beluga whales inhabit the extreme environment of Arctic and sub-Arctic waters and over time have evolved a number of body adaptations to help them cope in such a cold and unwelcoming place.