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Galapagos Fur Seal (Arctocephalus galapagoensis)

Photo of Galapagos Fur Seal (Arctocephalus galapagoensis)

Key facts

Scientific name
Arctocephalus galapagoensis
Common name
Galapagos Fur Seal
Category
Marine mammals
Family
Otariidae
Genus
Arctocephalus
Size
120–180 cm
Depth
0–15 m
IUCN status
Endangered (EN)
Danger level
Harmless
Habitats
rocky-reef
Behaviours
benthic, solitary
Ocean zones
Eastern Pacific

Description

Arctocephalus galapagoensis reaches 1.8 m. Fur seal endemic to Galapagos (East Pacific). Brown-reddish, compact body, small flippers. Bound to rocky coastal reefs. Solitary to territorial, stays near cliffs. Threatened by fishing and coastal degradation (IUCN EN). Less visible than Zalophus but important for local biodiversity.

Photo of Galapagos Fur Seal

Photo of Galapagos Fur Seal (Arctocephalus galapagoensis)Photo of Galapagos Fur Seal (Arctocephalus galapagoensis)Photo of Galapagos Fur Seal (Arctocephalus galapagoensis)

Frequently asked questions

How big is the Galapagos Fur Seal?
Galapagos Fur Seal (Arctocephalus galapagoensis) reaches 120–180 cm in length.
At what depth can you find the Galapagos Fur Seal?
Galapagos Fur Seal is found between 0–15 m deep.
Is the Galapagos Fur Seal dangerous to divers?
Danger level: Harmless.
What is the conservation status of the Galapagos Fur Seal?
IUCN status: Endangered (EN).
Where can you find the Galapagos Fur Seal?
Found in: Eastern Pacific.

Other species in the family Otariidae

  • Zalophus wollebaeki - Galapagos Sea Lion

Sources

  • Taxonomy: WoRMS (AphiaID 255008)
  • Photos: iNaturalist (CC BY-NC)
  • Distribution: GBIF (taxonKey 2433473)
  • Conservation: IUCN Red List
  • Encyclopedia: Wikipedia