The common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) is widely distributed in temperate and tropical oceans worldwide. It can be found in every ocean except the polar regions. This species is commonly found along the continental shelves of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, the Indian Ocean, and some inland seas, such as the Mediterranean and the Black Sea.

Bottlenose dolphins inhabit a range of marine environments, from open ocean and deep offshore waters to coastal areas like bays, estuaries, and inlets. They prefer water temperatures ranging from 10°C to 32°C (50°F to 90°F), making them adaptable to various climate zones, typically avoiding colder waters.

Tursiops truncatus occupy a top predator role in their ecological niche. They feed on a wide variety of fish and cephalopods, employing diverse hunting strategies ranging from individual hunting to cooperative group behaviors. The species' adaptability to different environmental conditions contributes to their widespread distribution.