The Grey Seal, also known as the Atlantic Seal or the horsehead seal, is a significant marine mammal belonging to the Phocidae family. Recent research has revealed that seal milk contains 332 different types of oligosaccharides, which play a crucial role in the development of seal pups.
Grey seals inhabit the coastal regions of the North Atlantic Ocean, ranging from the mid-Atlantic to the Baltic Sea. They are typically found in areas with rocky shores, islands, and sandbars.
These seals predominantly occupy coastal waters. When on land, they can be seen on rocky coasts, ice shelves, and icebergs, where they haul out to rest and breed.
According to the IUCN, the conservation status of Grey seals is classified as Least Concern. This indicates that their populations are currently stable, although ongoing monitoring is essential.
Male Grey seals can grow up to 10 feet in length, while females are generally smaller. The pups are born with a distinctive white fur known as lanugo, which helps them retain heat in cold waters.
Grey seals exhibit diurnal behavior, meaning they are active during the day and rest at night. A notable behavior is known as 'bottling', where the seal maintains a vertical position in the water with only its head visible.
As carnivores, Grey seals primarily feed on a variety of fish, focusing on benthic and demersal species. Their diet plays a crucial role in the marine ecosystem, influencing fish populations and overall ocean health.
The lifespan of Grey seals ranges between 25 to 35 years, with individual longevity influenced by environmental factors and access to food resources.
Q1. What is the habitat of Grey seals?
Answer: Grey seals primarily inhabit coastal waters and can often be found on rocky shores, islands, and sandbars, as well as on ice shelves and icebergs.
Q2. How long do Grey seals live?
Answer: The average lifespan of Grey seals ranges from 25 to 35 years, depending on environmental conditions and food availability.
Q3. What do Grey seals eat?
Answer: Grey seals are carnivorous and mainly feed on a variety of fish, particularly benthic and demersal species that reside near the ocean floor.
Q4. What is the conservation status of Grey seals?
Answer: The conservation status of Grey seals is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating stable populations that require ongoing monitoring.
Q5. What is the significance of oligosaccharides in seal milk?
Answer: Oligosaccharides in seal milk support the growth and development of seal pups, contributing to their health and survival in harsh marine environments.
Question 1: What is the primary diet of Grey seals?
A) Herbivorous
B) Carnivorous
C) Omnivorous
D) Detritivorous
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: What is the conservation status of Grey seals as per IUCN?
A) Vulnerable
B) Endangered
C) Least Concern
D) Critically Endangered
Correct Answer: C
Question 3: Where are Grey seals predominantly found?
A) Pacific Ocean
B) Indian Ocean
C) North Atlantic Ocean
D) Southern Ocean
Correct Answer: C
Question 4: How long can Grey seals live?
A) 15-20 years
B) 25-35 years
C) 40-50 years
D) 10-15 years
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: What behavior is known as 'bottling' in Grey seals?
A) Feeding
B) Sleeping
C) Diving
D) Vertical resting in water
Correct Answer: D
Question 6: What is a unique characteristic of Grey seal pups?
A) They have grey fur
B) They have white fur (lanugo)
C) They are born with spots
D) They are born with no fur
Correct Answer: B
Question 7: Which family do Grey seals belong to?
A) Otariidae
B) Phocidae
C) Mustelidae
D) Ursidae
Correct Answer: B
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