Gavialis gangeticus

(Gmelin, 1789)

Vernacular names
English : Indian gharial
French : Gavial du Gange

Classification
Class : Reptilia
Order : Crocodylia
Family : Gavialidae
Notes : No subspecies known.

Identification
Adults can reach a total length up to 6.5 meters for a weight up to 180 kg. Unmistakable species, with smooth scales and very narrow and long snout. Males have a bulbous growth on snout. Coloration is olive-grey to light brown, cream belly.

Range and habitat
The species currently occurs as three populations in India (Chambal River, Girwa River, Son River) and one in Nepal (Rapti/Narayani River). Lives in slow-moving medium to large rivers with exposed sand banks.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : CRITICALLY ENDANGERED
CITES : Appendix I
Status : The species has undergone dramatic long term and short term declines because of pollution, loss of habitat, human expansion and over-hunting.
Ex-Situ Programs : SSP in America, ESB in Europe

Observation

 

Back to “Crocodiles and Alligators” page