Differences Between Crocodiles and Alligators and Gharials

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.

Aspects Crocodiles Alligators 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, March 18). 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, 18 March 2024, https://www.bioexplorer.net/differences-crocodiles-and-alligators-and-gharials.html/.
BioExplorer.net. "Differences Between Crocodiles and Alligators and Gharials" Bio Explorer, March 18 2024. https://www.bioexplorer.net/differences-crocodiles-and-alligators-and-gharials.html/.

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