![]() Most species weigh about 50 to 200 kg (110 to 440 lb). ![]() However, the average length for most North American species is 13.89 feet in length. They vary in size from 1.2 m (4 ft) and 40 kg (88 lb) (Maui's dolphin), up to 9.5 m (30 ft) and 10 tonnes (the Orca). The family Delphinidae is the largest in the Cetacea, and relatively recent: dolphins evolved about 10 million years ago, during the Miocene period. They are found worldwide, mostly in the shallower seas of the continental shelves, and are carnivores, mostly eating fish and squid. There are almost 40 species of dolphin in 17 genera. A group of dolphins can be called a "school" or a "pod". ![]() The name is from Ancient Greek δελφίς (delphis) meaning "with a womb", viz. ![]() Dolphins are aquatic mammals related to whales and porpoises, famous for their intelligence, apparent compassion, and joy. ![]()
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