Which term describes the filter-feeding structures in baleen whales?

Which term describes the filter-feeding structures in baleen whales?

• A. Baleen
• B. Teeth
• C. Dorsal fin
• D. Blowhole

Answer: (A)

Filter-feeding in baleen whales relies on specialized keratinous plates called baleen that hang from the upper jaw. These plates act like a sieve: the whale takes in a big mouthful of water containing tiny prey, then closes the mouth and pushes water out through the baleen, trapping krill and small organisms on the inside of the plates so they can be swallowed. This adaptation lets huge amounts of prey be collected in a single gulp. The other options describe features with different roles: teeth are used by toothed whales to grasp prey, the dorsal fin helps with stability and steering, and the blowhole is for breathing.

Filter-feeding in baleen whales relies on specialized keratinous plates called baleen that hang from the upper jaw. These plates act like a sieve: the whale takes in a big mouthful of water containing tiny prey, then closes the mouth and pushes water out through the baleen, trapping krill and small organisms on the inside of the plates so they can be swallowed. This adaptation lets huge amounts of prey be collected in a single gulp. The other options describe features with different roles: teeth are used by toothed whales to grasp prey, the dorsal fin helps with stability and steering, and the blowhole is for breathing.