Crocodiles are large reptiles belonging to the family Crocodylidae. They are semi-aquatic ambush hunters found in tropical and subtropical regions. There are two crocodile species found in India: the saltwater crocodile and the mugger crocodile.
Two crocodile species in India
1. Saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus)
Saltwater crocodiles are the largest of all living crocodilian species. They live in India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Southeast Asia, and northern Australia. In India, they primarily inhabit the eastern coastal states along the Bay of Bengal. These crocodiles can grow over 6 meters (19.7 ft) in length, and large individuals can weigh more than 1,000 kilograms (2,205 pounds).
Young crocodiles are light in color with black spots, while adults are much darker. Some of the best places to see saltwater crocodiles in India are the protected mangrove forests of West Bengal and Odisha.
2. Mugger crocodile (Crocodylus palustris)
Mugger crocodiles, also known as marsh crocodiles, are found throughout most of India, except at higher altitudes. Though not as large as saltwater crocodiles, muggers can still grow up to 5 meters (16.4 ft) in length. Most large individuals weigh between 300 and 450 kilograms (660 to 990 pounds).
Young mugger crocodiles display an olive color with black spots. As they grow, they develop darker coloration. Adults usually appear dark olive or brown and may sometimes look yellowish-grey. Mugger crocodiles inhabit India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Pakistan, Iran, and Bangladesh.
Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus) (not a “true” crocodile)
The gharial is another crocodilian found in India. It is not a “true” crocodile, although it is sometimes referred to as the fish-eating crocodile. The gharial belongs to the family Gavialidae. “True” crocodiles are crocodilian species classified under the family Crocodylidae.
Are there alligators in India?
No, alligators are not found in India. Alligators are only found in the USA and China.
(Also read: Differences between Crocodiles and Alligators | Crocodile vs Alligator)
Points to remember
- Species in the order Crocodilia are known as Crocodilians – Alligators, Crocodiles, Gharials, and Caimans.
- The gharial (Gavialis gangeticus), found in India, is a crocodilian but not a “true” crocodile.
- Europe and Antarctica are two continents with no crocodilian species.
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