The Atlantic spotted dolphin generally measures 5.2 to 7.5 feet in length and weighs between 220 and 315 lbs as an adult. Its coloration features a three-tone gray pattern: a dark gray back, lighter gray sides, and a often whitish belly, all covered with distinctive spots that become more numerous with age. Calves are born without spots, which gradually appear as they grow.

The Atlantic spotted dolphin has a long, narrow rostrum, a well-defined melon and a falcate dorsal fin — meaning sickle-shaped — giving it an elegant and dynamic silhouette.

The Atlantic spotted dolphin inhabits tropical, subtropical, and warm temperate waters of the Atlantic ocean, ranging from the coasts of North and South America to areas around oceanic islands, such as the Canary islands and the Azores.

The Atlantic spotted dolphin is often found near the continental shelf and its slopes, but also further offshore.

The Atlantic spotted dolphin is a highly social species, typically forming groups ranging from a few individuals to several dozen. It is also very active at the surface, performing jumps, acrobatics, and frequently swimming alongside the bows of boats.

The Atlantic spotted dolphin lives in well-organized groups and spends a lot of time interacting with other individuals. Sometimes, it even joins other dolphin species to play or hunt together.

The Atlantic spotted dolphin hunts in groups, with members working together to surround schools of fish, cephalopods, or other small marine animals to feed. Additionally, their complex social structure involves extensive interactions among individuals and sometimes even associations with other dolphin species.

Gestation in female Atlantic spotted dolphins lasts about 11 to 12 months, resulting in calves approximately 2.6 feet long, born without spots. Females reach sexual maturity relatively late, usually between 9 and 15 years of age.

The atlantic spotted dolphin is listed as many other marine species within The IUCN Red List of threatened species. The atlantic spotted dolphin appears in the IUCN Red List since 2018 within the category Least Concern !