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Crocodilians: Ancient Reptiles with Unique Adaptations

Explore the fascinating world of crocodilians – alligators, crocodiles, gharials, and caimans. These cold-blooded reptiles have remained relatively unchanged for 200 million years and are distantly related to dinosaurs. Learn about their aquatic adaptations, reproduction habits, carnivorous diets, and ambush attack methods. Discover the differences between alligators and crocodiles, from their snout shapes to jaw sizes. Witness their incredible breath-holding abilities and how they have evolved to thrive in various environments. Immerse yourself in the world of these fearsome yet intriguing creatures!

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Crocodilians: Ancient Reptiles with Unique Adaptations

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  1. Crocodilians Alligators, Crocodiles, Gharials and Caimans…..

  2. General Information • Cold-blooded REPTILES!!! • Distantly related to Dinosaurs (and chickens…) • Most common ancestor known appeared 200 million years ago… • Have not changed much! • 3 Families • Alligatoridae – contains 7 species • Crocodylidae – contains 14 species • Gavialidae – only 1 living species • http://crocodilian.com/cnhc/csl.html

  3. More General Info… • All 23 species have: • Similar body shape (streamlined and low to the ground) • Elongated snouts • Powerful jaws • Muscular tails • Large scales • Eyes and nostrils positioned on top of head

  4. Aquatic Adaptations • 200 million years ago, the modern Crocodilian ancestors made changes to fill a niche • Nictitating Membrane • Extra, transparent eyelid • Ability to drag and eat prey under water • Prevention of water flooding the nose and ears

  5. Reproduction • Reproduce Sexually • One male shares territory with several females • Females lay eggs on land, near water • Mothers are caregivers

  6. Food • CARNIVORES!!!! • Eat live prey and carrion • From dragonflies to buffalo and rarely, humans • Attack Methods: • AMBUSH!! • http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7jbS-1tChuc • Float, float, lunge and SNAP!

  7. Croc VS Gator • Alligators • Broad, rounded snouts • Smaller lower • Hides the bottom teeth • Crocodiles • Narrower snouts that taper to a point • Same-size jaws

  8. Cool ability… • Breath holding! • Usually 4-15 minutes (depending on energy expenditure) • Hours? • Yes! • If not in stressed out conditions • Body temperature is cold

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