Is It a Dolphin or a Porpoise?

Dolphins and porpoises are both cetaceans, but they have distinct characteristics that set them apart. Learn how to recognize a dolphin vs. a porpoise.

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A wetland preserve with ponds, mangroves, and walking trails Aerial view of the Robinson Preserve habitat restoration project. Credit: Manatee County and E.T. MacKenzie, Inc.
A large bluefin tuna swims through shadowy water in pursuit of a small bait fish Atlantic bluefin tuna. Credit: Tag A Giant
Feature Story

Western Atlantic Provides Refuge for Bluefin Tuna

New England/Mid-Atlantic
Southeast
A diver hovers over a pink hued reef while preparing a camera to take images of the benthos. A scientist prepares to photograph a reef at Swains Island during the 2023 National Coral Reef Monitoring Program survey in American Samoa. Credit: NOAA Fisheries (Permit #NMSAS-2023-002)
The Salmon River, which is part of the Snake River Basin in Idaho. Credit: Adobe Stock The Salmon River, which is part of the Snake River Basin in Idaho. Credit: Adobe Stock
U.S. Senators Ted Stevens (R-AK) and Warren Magnuson (D-WA) having a conversation in their neighboring senate seats, with state flags in the background. U.S. Senators Ted Stevens (R-AK) and Warren Magnuson (D-WA), 1973.
Leadership Message

50 Years of Innovation and Leadership: Celebrating the Magnuson-Stevens Act

Alaska
New England/Mid-Atlantic
Pacific Islands
Southeast
West Coast
National
International

Upcoming Events

Management Track Community Input

Apr 30, 2026

May 2026 Atlantic Highly Migratory Species Advisory Panel Meeting

May 12, 2026 - May 14, 2026

Ocean Fun Days 2026

May 17, 2026

2026 May Council Coordination Committee Meeting

May 19, 2026 - May 21, 2026

Open Funding Opportunities

Species Recovery Grants to States

NOAA Great Lakes Fish Habitat Restoration Partnership Grants