description Herpetocetus transatlanticus Overview
Herpetocetus transatlanticus is an extinct species of cetotheriid baleen whale known from Pliocene fossil deposits on both sides of the North Atlantic. Its documented occurrence in North American and European deposits distinguishes it from cetotheriid species known from more geographically restricted areas. The species belongs to an extinct group of baleen whales that lived before the modern diversity of rorquals and related forms became established.
help Herpetocetus transatlanticus FAQ
What is Herpetocetus transatlanticus?
Herpetocetus transatlanticus is an extinct cetotheriid baleen whale. It is known from Pliocene fossil deposits on both sides of the North Atlantic.
What does the name Herpetocetus transatlanticus indicate about its fossils?
The species name refers to its transatlantic distribution, with documented occurrences in North American and European deposits. That range distinguishes it from cetotheriid species known only from more limited regions.
Was Herpetocetus transatlanticus a toothed whale?
No. It was a baleen whale, meaning it belonged to the filter-feeding branch of whales rather than the toothed whales that include dolphins and sperm whales.
When did Herpetocetus transatlanticus live?
The species is known from the Pliocene, a geological epoch that began about 5.3 million years ago and ended about 2.6 million years ago. Its fossils therefore predate the modern Holocene period.
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Similar to Herpetocetus transatlanticus
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