merisäkkäisiin

Merisäkkäisiin, commonly known as marine mammals, are a diverse group of mammals that primarily inhabit marine or marine-influenced environments. These animals have adapted to life in the sea, with many spending their entire lives in water. The group includes several distinct orders of mammals, such as cetaceans (whales, dolphins, and porpoises), pinnipeds (seals, sea lions, and walruses), and sirenians (manatees and dugongs). Some terrestrial mammals, like polar bears, also spend significant portions of their lives at sea and are often considered marine mammals due to their reliance on marine ecosystems for food.

These animals exhibit a range of adaptations for aquatic life. These include streamlined bodies, blubber for insulation, specialized respiratory systems for holding their breath, and flippers or flukes for locomotion. Their diets vary greatly, from filter-feeding on plankton to hunting large fish and squid. Marine mammals play crucial roles in their ecosystems, influencing prey populations and nutrient cycling. Many species face threats from human activities, including pollution, overfishing, habitat loss, and climate change, leading to conservation concerns for numerous populations worldwide.