Commersons

Commersons is a common name used in biology to refer to species that bear the name of the French naturalist Philibert Commerson (1727–1773). The name is most often associated with two marine vertebrates discovered during 18th‑century voyages: Commerson's dolphin (Cephalorhynchus commersonii) and Commerson's penguin (Spheniscus demersus).

Commerson's dolphin is a small, robust dolphin found along the coasts of southern South America, including parts of Chile and Argentina, with occurrences around the Falkland Islands and nearby subantarctic waters. Adults typically measure up to roughly 1.2 to 1.6 meters in length. They inhabit shallow coastal and continental shelf waters and commonly form small to medium-sized groups. Their diet consists of various fish and cephalopods, and they are known for curious behavior, sometimes approaching boats.

Commerson's penguin is a small penguin native to southern Africa. It breeds along the southwestern coast of Africa, with colonies on offshore islands and along rocky shores from Angola to South Africa, including sites such as Robben Island and Dassen Island. Nesting occurs in burrows, crevices, or among dense vegetation near the shore. The penguin feeds primarily on small fish and crustaceans and relies on marine productivity close to its coastal habitat.

Both species reflect the historical practice of naming organisms after explorers and naturalists of the 18th century. The term commersons thus highlights the broader legacy of Commerson in the history of natural history and biogeography.