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Sea otters are a type of aquatic mammal that belong to the family of otters known as Lutrinae. They are found exclusively in marine environments and are well adapted to life in the sea. Sea otters have a number of distinct physical characteristics that set them apart from other otters, including a thicker coat of fur and a more streamlined body shape. One of the defining features of sea otters is their use of tools, which they use to help them find and eat food. For example, sea otters have been known to use rocks to break open shellfish, making it easier for them to access the meat inside. This behavior is unusual among animals and is one of the reasons why sea otters are so fascinating to study. Sea otters play a critical role in the marine ecosystem as they help to control the population of sea urchins, which can otherwise overgraze on kelp forests and disrupt the balance of the ecosystem. Unfortunately, sea otters are currently listed as an endangered species due to threats such as habitat loss, pollution, and hunting. Conservation efforts are underway to protect and recover this important marine mammal. As members of the family Lutrinae, sea otters share a common ancestry with other otters, including river otters and giant otters. However, their exclusive marine habitat and unique adaptations set them apart from their freshwater cousins. Sea otters are an important part of the marine ecosystem and are valued for their beauty, intelligence, and cultural significance.