The marine mammal known for its long tusks and Arctic habitat is the walrus. Walruses are large pinnipeds found around the Arctic Ocean and subarctic seas of the Northern Hemisphere.
Their tusks are elongated upper canine teeth that grow throughout life in both males and females. Walruses use them to haul themselves onto sea ice, establish dominance, defend against predators, and sometimes break through ice. Their sensitive whiskers help them locate clams and other bottom-dwelling prey in dark, shallow water.
Walruses are often confused with seals or sea lions because all are marine mammals and members of the pinniped group. However, seals lack external ear flaps, while walruses are immediately recognizable by their massive bodies, whiskers, and paired tusks. The species is also the only living member of the walrus family, Odobenidae. Its scientific name, Odobenus rosmarus, comes from Greek roots meaning “tooth-walking,” reflecting the old observation that walruses use their tusks to help climb from the water.