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Externally,
this species appears very similar to Hector's beaked
whale, and in fact, the two were thought to be the same
until M. perrini's redescription in 2002. The rostrum
is shorter than in any other Mesoplodon, except Hector's
and pygmy beaked whales. The large triangular tusks
of adult males are situated just behind the tip of the
lower jaw.
Apparently, these animals are countershaded, with
a dark gray back and whitish belly. Adult males at
least have a white patch around the umbilicus, and
a mask of dark gray color extending from near the
gape to the eye and from there dorsally. The ventral
surface of the flukes exhibits white striations.
Only five specimens have been examined, but these
indicate that the animals can grow to at least 4.5
m. |
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