The Beluga Whale or white whale (Delphinapterus leucas) is an Arctic and sub-Arctic cetacean. Male belugas are larger than females. Belugas have a dorsal ridge, rather than a dorsal fin. The evolutionary preference for a dorsal ridge rather than a fin is believed to be an adaptation to under-ice conditions, or possibly as a way of preserving heat. Belugas can be playful—they may spit at humans or other whales. Unlike most whales, it is capable of swimming backwards. Belugas are very social animals assembled in pods or social groups of more than 2 - 25 whales. They are slow swimmers who are hunted by killer whales, polar bears, and people. The Beluga uses echolocation to locate the prey. The beluga is listed as near threatened by the IUCN.
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