Why are narwhals closely related to the beluga whale?

Both Beluga and Narwhal are classified as belonging to the Monodontidae family, and are the only two species within this grouping. Monodontidae are a subset of Delphinoidea, the largest group of toothed whales. read more

The narwhal is most closely related to the beluga whale. Together, these two species comprise the only extant members of the family Monodontidae, sometimes referred to as the"white whales". The Monodontidae are distinguished by medium size (at around 4 m (13.1 ft) in length), forehead melons (round sensory organs), short snouts, and the absence of a true dorsal fin. read more

Narwhals are found in arctic waters in the Northern Hemisphere. Narwhals are easily identified by their long tusk. The tusk is actually a tooth and is only present on the male. Scientists aren't sure what the tusk is used for! Narwhals are 13-16 feet long and weigh up to 2,500 pounds. Narwhals are bluish-gray with white spots. read more