Crocodiles, alligators, and gharials are giant aquatic reptiles that exist in regions throughout the world. Crocodiles can be found in Africa, Asia, Australia, and North America, while alligators in North America and Asia. Gharials can only be found in India and neighboring countries.
This page will explore critical differences between crocodiles, alligators, and gharials.
| Family | Crocodylidae | Alligatoridae | Gavialidae |
| Body Color | Olive and Tan (Lighter) | Gray and black (Darker) | Olive colored |
| Water bodies | Saltwater | Freshwater | Freshwater |
| Snout Shape | Pointed & V-shaped | Wide & U-shaped | Long, thin and distinct boss at the end snout |
| Salt Glands | Present and osmoregulate in salinity regions | No salt glands | Present |
| Behavior | Aggressive | Less Aggressive | Very shy |
| Teeth | Lower jaw teeth visible when mouth shut | Lower jaw teeth not visible when mouth shut | Sharp teeth |
| Locomotion Speed | 20 mph | 30 mph | 15 mph |
| Body Length | Up to 17 feet long | Up to 14 feet long | Up to 15 feet long |
| Body Weight | Over 2200 lbs (Saltwater Crocodile) | Around 1000 lbs (American Alligator) | Up to 2000 lbs |
| Bite Force | 3500 pounds per square inch (PSI) | 2900 PSI | 2006 PSI |
| Life Span | Up to 70 years | Up to 50 years | Up to 50 to 60 years |
| Total Species | 13 | 8 | 2 |
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BioExplorer.net. (2024, July 19). Differences Between Crocodiles and Alligators and Gharials. Bio Explorer. https://www.bioexplorer.net/differences-crocodiles-and-alligators-and-gharials.html/.
BioExplorer.net. "Differences Between Crocodiles and Alligators and Gharials" Bio Explorer, 19 July 2024, https://www.bioexplorer.net/differences-crocodiles-and-alligators-and-gharials.html/.
BioExplorer.net. "Differences Between Crocodiles and Alligators and Gharials" Bio Explorer, July 19 2024. https://www.bioexplorer.net/differences-crocodiles-and-alligators-and-gharials.html/.
