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Gavialis
Gharial
© Ángel Dolón
Fun Fact!
A monotypic genus is a genus that only has one species.
Similarly a monotypic Family would only have a singular genus
Unique Characteristics
- Snout Shape: Long, narrow, and V-shaped (very distinct).
- Nostrils: Located at the tip of the snout.
- Teeth: Numerous, slender teeth that fit tightly together.
- Size: Can grow up to 20 feet (6 meters).
- Habitat: Found primarily in rivers of India and Nepal.
- Body Shape: Long and slender body with a lighter coloration (greenish-brown).
Characteristics
- Snout: Long, narrow, and V-shaped, specially adapted for catching fish.
- Nostrils: Located at the tip of the snout, often flared outward.
- Teeth: Numerous, slender, needle-like teeth, tightly packed, ideal for gripping fish.
- Size: Can grow up to 20 feet (6 meters), making it one of the largest crocodilians.
- Body Shape: Long, slender, streamlined body adapted for swimming.
- Coloration: Olive or brownish-green with lighter underparts.
- Habitat: Primarily freshwater rivers in India, Nepal, and surrounding regions, often in fast-moving, deep waters.
- Diet: Carnivorous, primarily fish, thanks to its specialized snout.
- Behavior: Generally non-aggressive towards humans; often seen basking on riverbanks or floating in the water.
- Conservation Status: Critically endangered, with a rapidly declining population due to habitat loss, entanglement in fishing nets, and poaching.
- Distinctive Feature: Male gharials have a "ghara" (a rounded knob) on the tip of their snout, which is used to amplify calls and attract mates.
