They are generally large, robust and bulky, particularly in comparison with the Indian bottlenose dolphin. It has a distinct stubby beak, set off from the melon by a crease. This species is alos darker than the Indian Ocean bottlenose dolphin, having a more bulky melon and proportionately shorter, thicker rostrum. The body color is complex with considerable variation. The body may be slate grey, bluish or dun on the upper part, lightening on the sides, and pale greyish pink or almost white on the underside. They feed on fish (including lantern fish) and cephalopods (particularly squid). Can grow up to 3.9 meters and weigh 650 kg.