What species of marine mammals are used by the Navy?
In the early years of the Navy’s Marine Mammal Program, several marine mammal species were investigated and considered for their sensory and physical capabilities. Today, the Navy cares for, trains, and relies on two species; the bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus), and the California sea lion (Zalophus californianus). Both of these species are known for their trainability, adaptability, and heartiness in the marine environment. The Navy also has two white whales, or belugas (Delphinapterus leucas) that have been subjects in a number of research projects and are currently on breeding loan.
