The common name comes from the hump or ridge along the animal's back on which the dorsal fin sits. However, males tend to have larger humps than females that may even extend onto the tail stock.
Coloration also varies with age.
For example, in South Africa, Indo-Pacific humpbacked dolphin calves are reported to be born almost white and fade to dark gray as they get older. Their bodies are robust, and they have a visible beak. At birth, Indo-Pacific humpbacked dolphins are about one meter long. This species has been recorded to weigh up to 285 kg. They are found in coastal waters and may also inhabit rivers, estuaries, and mangrove swamps.