The skeleton of the dolphin has four principal functions: it shapes and supports the animal’s body, it protects vital internal organs such as the brain, heart and lungs, it allows movement of body parts such as the head and limbs, and it enables the movement of the whole animal.As seen in the image above, the dolphin has many features to its skeletal system. Some of the these features are its back bone, skull, rib, teeth and jaw. The skull’s primary function is to protect the brain. Its backbone acts as a firm bar that supports the dolphin’s weight.
Common dolphins have 75 vertebrae, more than most other mammals. Extra vertebrae in its tail provide the muscle attachments and flexibility required for swimming.