Alligator
All About Crocodiles
Bone armor, sharp teeth, and incredible biting power – learn all about crocodiles!
What Are Crocodiles?
Crocodiles are large reptiles that have been living on Earth for millions of years. They possess an elongated body, a strong, long tail, and sharp teeth. Crocodiles are adept at moving both on land and in water.
Main Characteristics of Crocodiles
1. Bony Armor
Crocodiles possess a bony armor on their neck, back, tail, as well as on their limbs. The bony structures lie beneath their scales and is made up of numerous bony plates. The plates on their back are particularly large. They serve to prevent injuries. Unlike snakes or chameleons, crocodiles do not shed their skin. Instead, they remove the outer layers by rubbing them off.
2. Eyes and Nostrils
Crocodiles spend a lot of time lying in the water, waiting for prey. To avoid detection, over 90% of their body remains submerged. Only their eyes and nostrils are above the water's surface – allowing them to see and breathe.
3. Greatest Biting Power (Land Animal)
Crocodiles have a biting force exceeding 16,000 Newtons – thanks to their exceptionally strong jaw muscles. They hold the record for the greatest biting power among all land animals. Only the great white shark can bite harder (over 18,000 Newtons). In comparison, humans can only manage 80 Newtons.
Crocodile Family Tree
Amazing Facts About Crocodiles
- There are 26 species of crocodiles.
- Most crocodiles can be found in Africa, South and Central America, Indonesia, and India.
- The most well-known are the saltwater crocodile and the alligator.
- From the side, alligators appear to be smiling.
- Caimans and gavials are also part of the crocodile family.
- Most crocodiles inhabit freshwater environments like lakes and rivers.
- The saltwater crocodile can also thrive in saltwater.
- As carnivores, they ambush their prey.
- They possess an impressive bite force of over 16,000 Newtons, surpassed only by the great white shark at over 18,000 Newtons, while humans have a bite force of 80 Newtons.
- Crocodiles, along with birds, are the only living relatives of the archosaurs.
- The largest species is the saltwater crocodile, with the biggest recorded individual named 'Lolong,' measuring 20-2 feet (6.17 meters) and weighing 2,369 pounds (1,075 kg).
- The smallest is the Cuvier's dwarf caiman, reaching a maximum length of 3.9-4.5 feet (1.2-1.4 meters) and weighing between 11-15.4 pounds (5-7 kg).
- The oldest crocodile in the world is Henry, a Nile crocodile. He is at least 124 years old and resides at the Crocworld Conservation Center in South Africa.
