False Gharial: The Lesser-Known Crocodilian Species

   Crocodiles are fascinating creatures that have been on this planet for millions of years. There are about 23 species of crocodiles, and the false gharial is one of the lesser-known species. Although it is not as popular as the saltwater or Nile crocodile, the false gharial has a unique set of characteristics that make it stand out. In this article, we will dive into the world of the false gharial, exploring its scientific classification, history, physical description, behavior, and more.

Scientific Name and Classification:

  The scientific name of the false gharial is Tomistoma schlegelii. It belongs to the family Crocodylidae, which is the same family as the saltwater crocodile and the Nile crocodile. The false gharial is the only species in the genus Tomistoma. This species was first described by Hermann Schlegel in 1844.

Type:

  The false gharial is a crocodilian species that is native to Southeast Asia. It is a freshwater crocodile that inhabits rivers, lakes, and swamps in the region.

History:

  The false gharial has a relatively short history compared to other crocodile species. Its first description was in 1844 by Hermann Schlegel. Since then, there has been limited research on this species, making it one of the lesser-known crocodile species.

Evolution and Origins:

  The false gharial belongs to the same family as the saltwater and Nile crocodile. However, it is not closely related to these species. Genetic analysis suggests that the false gharial diverged from the other crocodilian species around 70 million years ago.

Physical Description:

  The false gharial has a unique set of physical characteristics that distinguish it from other crocodilian species. It has a slender and elongated snout that resembles that of a gharial, which is a species of crocodile found in India. It has a relatively small head compared to its body size, and its eyes are positioned higher on its head than other crocodiles. Its body is slender and streamlined, making it an excellent swimmer.

Social Structure:

  The false gharial is a solitary animal that does not form groups or social structures. It is a territorial animal that will defend its territory aggressively.

Anatomy and Appearance:

  The false gharial is a medium-sized crocodile that can grow up to 5 meters in length. It has a slender body, a long and narrow snout, and a set of sharp teeth that it uses to catch prey. Its eyes are positioned higher on its head than other crocodiles, giving it a better field of vision when swimming.

Distribution and Habitat:

  The false gharial is native to Southeast Asia and can be found in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. It inhabits freshwater rivers, lakes, and swamps in the region.

Population – How Many Are Left?

  There is limited data on the population of false gharials. However, it is believed that the population has declined significantly due to habitat loss and hunting.

Size:

  The false gharial is a medium-sized crocodile that can grow up to 5 meters in length.

Weight:

  The false gharial can weigh up to 500 kg.

Behavior and Lifestyle:

  The false gharial is a solitary animal that spends most of its time in the water. It is an excellent swimmer and can stay submerged for up to an hour. It is a territorial animal that will defend its territory aggressively.

Reproduction, babies, and Lifespan:

  The false gharial reaches sexual maturity at around 8 to 10 years of age. Mating usually occurs during the rainy season when water levels are high. Females lay their eggs in nests made of vegetation near the water's edge. The eggs take around 90 days to hatch, and the hatchlings are around 30 cm in length. The young crocodiles are vulnerable to predators, and many do not survive to adulthood.

The lifespan of the false gharial is not well known, but it is estimated to be around 50 years in the wild.

Diet and Prey:

  The false gharial is a carnivorous animal that feeds on fish, crustaceans, and small mammals. It has a unique hunting technique where it uses its elongated snout to catch fish. The false gharial has a set of sharp teeth that it uses to hold onto its prey and tear it apart. 

Predators and Threats:

  The main predators of the false gharial are larger crocodilian species such as the saltwater crocodile and the Nile crocodile. The false gharial is also threatened by habitat loss and hunting. Its skin is highly valued in the leather industry, and its meat is considered a delicacy in some parts of Southeast Asia.

Relationship with Humans:

  The false gharial has had limited interaction with humans due to its reclusive nature. However, it is hunted for its skin and meat, which has led to a decline in its population. Efforts are being made to protect the species, and it is listed as a vulnerable species on the IUCN Red List.

Incredible Facts:

• The false gharial is also known as the Malayan gharial or the Sunda gharial.
• The false gharial has a unique set of physical characteristics that distinguish it from other crocodilian species.
• The false gharial is a freshwater crocodile that inhabits rivers, lakes, and swamps in Southeast Asia.
• The false gharial has a unique hunting technique where it uses its elongated snout to catch fish.

FUN FACTS:

• The false gharial is one of the lesser-known crocodile species.
• The false gharial is often confused with the gharial, a crocodile species found in India.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

Q. How long can the false gharial stay submerged?

A. The false gharial can stay submerged for up to an hour.

Q. What is the false gharial's unique hunting technique?

A. The false gharial uses its elongated snout to catch fish.

Q. Where is the false gharial found?

A. The false gharial is native to Southeast Asia and can be found in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand.

Conclusion:

  The false gharial is a unique and fascinating crocodile species that is native to Southeast Asia. It has a set of physical characteristics that distinguish it from other crocodilian species, and a unique hunting technique that involves using its elongated snout to catch fish. However, the false gharial is threatened by habitat loss and hunting, and its population has declined significantly. Efforts are being made to protect the species, and it is listed as a vulnerable species on the IUCN Red List. As with all species, it is essential to protect the false gharial to ensure its survival for generations to come.