Scientific Name of Gharial

Gavialis gangeticus, also known as the gavial, is a fish-eating crocodile in the family Gavialidae. This species of crocodile also holds the record for the longest of all living crocodilians, with mature males reaching lengths of over 19 feet. Adults usually weigh between 150-250 kgs.

One of the most distinguishing features of this animal is its snout – which has a conspicuous bulge at the end. This bulge resembles a “Ghara”, which is an earthenware pot known, hence, the name “Gharial.”

Its long narrow jaws contain small sharp teeth that interlock when it closes its snout. Coupled with its strong neck muscles and long snout, it is extremely adept at catching fish. Moreover, the gharial is the only living crocodilian that showcases sexual dimorphism. Males are larger and comparatively longer than females.

As per the IUCN, gharials are critically endangered, with just 211 individuals recorded in the wild (2018).

Also Read:

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• Reptilia – Characteristics And Classification
• Discover the Scientific Name of Crocodile

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