Why do marine mammals sway their tails vertically, while fish sway them horizontally?
In: Biology
A vertical tail or fin is more suitable for horizontal propulsion, and vice versa. Mammals need to climb up and down for air so horizontal tail is more optimal. Marine animals’ locomotion is adapted to their needs and habitat e.g. any direction movement by squid, octopus, jellyfish using jet propulsion.
More on animal movement in water [here.](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aquatic_locomotion)
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