Hello there, I'm an expert in marine biology with a particular interest in the classification and behavior of marine mammals. Let's dive into the question at hand: Is a false killer whale a dolphin?
The classification of marine mammals can be quite complex due to the variety of species and their evolutionary histories. To answer this question, we need to understand the taxonomic hierarchy and how different species are related to each other.

Dolphins are a group of aquatic mammals within the infraorder Cetacea. They are characterized by their elongated bodies, high intelligence, and social behavior. Dolphins belong to the family Delphinidae, which is a part of the larger group of toothed whales known as Odontoceti.

Now, let's talk about the false killer whale (*Pseudorca crassidens*). As mentioned, it is often referred to as the third-largest dolphin. However, this common name can be misleading when it comes to its taxonomic classification. The term "dolphin" is sometimes used colloquially to refer to any small-to-medium-sized cetacean, but in a strict biological sense, it specifically refers to members of the family Delphinidae.

The false killer whale, while it shares many characteristics with dolphins, is not a member of the Delphinidae family. Instead, it belongs to the family Globicephalidae, which is more closely related to pilot whales and melon-headed whales. This family is also within the infraorder Cetacea and the parvorder Oceanic dolphins, but it represents a different evolutionary line.

One of the key differences between the Delphinidae and Globicephalidae families is the shape of their heads and the structure of their teeth. Dolphins in the Delphinidae family typically have a beak-like snout, while members of the Globicephalidae family, including the false killer whale, have a more rounded, melon-like forehead without a pronounced beak.

In terms of behavior, false killer whales are known for their deep, far-reaching vocalizations and complex social structures, much like dolphins. They are also highly intelligent and are known to work cooperatively when hunting.

To summarize, while the false killer whale shares many traits with dolphins and is often referred to as such, it is not technically a dolphin in the strictest taxonomic sense. It belongs to a different family within the cetacean order but is still a fascinating and important member of the marine ecosystem.

Now, let's move on to the translation:

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The false killer whale (Pseudorca crassidens) is the third-largest dolphin, a member of the oceanic dolphins. It lives in temperate and tropical waters throughout the world.read more >>