Dolphins belong to the family Delphinidae and are a class of aquatic mammals that are widely distributed in all oceans of the world. They can also be found in brackish water near inland seas, river estuaries, and even some inland rivers.


The evolution of dolphins dates back to the early Eocene, about 50 million years ago when some mammals gradually adapted to the aquatic environment and began to evolve dolphin-like forms.


Over time, these terrestrial mammals evolved forms that were more adapted to the aquatic environment. Their limbs became streamlined, their hind limbs degenerated into a tail, and their bodies were gradually covered with smooth skin and fins.


Today, dolphins inhabit shallow waters near coastlines and can also live in deep waters. They can be found from the Arctic to the Antarctic, making them one of the most widely distributed marine mammals.


Dolphins are intelligent animals with a higher IQ than a 6-year-old child. Their large brain, along with their ability to learn, has led some experts to believe that dolphins are the most intelligent animals, possibly higher than chimpanzees.


When the right hemisphere of the dolphin's brain is exhausted, the left hemisphere is excited. This state alternates every 10 minutes or so, which is unique to dolphins. This way of sleeping allows them to swim and sleep at the same time, making them efficient and effective hunters.


Despite their remarkable intelligence and adaptability, dolphins face a variety of threats. Humans pose the greatest danger to these creatures. The development of globalized fishery has brought unprecedented fishing intensity and breadth, leading to the decline of dolphin populations worldwide.


Traditional fishing methods are still ubiquitous, and despite greener fishing techniques, they remain a major threat to dolphins. Marine pollution is another major concern. Wastewater, chemicals, and plastic waste from human activities enter the ocean, causing serious harm to dolphins and other marine life.


To protect dolphins and marine ecosystems, many countries and organizations have taken action. They have prohibited dolphin hunting and trade, set up dolphin sanctuaries, and reduced marine pollution. These measures are important in ensuring the survival of dolphins and other marine life.


It is important to note that dolphins share many characteristics with humans as mammals. However, since they live in the sea, which is different from the land environment of humans, there are some differences in their way of life.


Young dolphins are born tail first, while human babies are born head first. Female dolphins usually have to be pregnant for eleven months before they give birth to their young.


Dolphins are carnivorous and are at the top of the food chain. Except for the more ferocious sharks, other marine life does not pose a threat to them. It can be said that dolphins face such a survival dilemma, and the biggest behind-the-scenes driving force is still humans.


Dolphins are a remarkable class of aquatic mammals that have evolved over millions of years to adapt to the aquatic environment. They possess remarkable intelligence and learning ability, making them unique in the animal kingdom.


However, their survival is threatened by human activities such as overfishing and marine pollution. Protecting dolphins and marine ecosystems is crucial for their survival and the health of our oceans.