The Gharial
The Gharial is an unusual looking member of the crocodile family, easily identified by its long, narrow snout and sharp, multiple teeth which are perfect for catching slippery fish. Sweeping majestically through the rivers of India and Nepal, this superstar swimmer prefers a waterworld lifestyle and rarely comes on land. It's the males who really piece together the fashion puzzle, as they boast a big bulb on the tip of their snout when mature, like their wild interpretation of a gentleman's top hat. Apart from their fish meals, Gharials also filter water and take mud baths to keep their scales sparkling.
| Gharial | |
|---|---|
| Size | Up to 20 feet (6.1 meters) |
| Weight | Up to 2,000 pounds (907 kilograms) |
| Speed | Speed: 6 mph (9.6 km/hr) |
| Key Strength | Powerful jaws and long snout for catching fish |
| Biggest Weakness | Teeth not designed for tearing flesh |
| Scientific Name | Gavialis gangeticus |
| Family | Gavialidae |
| Habitat | Rivers |
| Geography | India and Nepal |
| Diet | Fish |
| Lifespan | 30 years - 60 years |
The Gharial
The Gharial is an unusual looking member of the crocodile family, easily identified by its long, narrow snout and sharp, multiple teeth which are perfect for catching slippery fish. Sweeping majestically through the rivers of India and Nepal, this superstar swimmer prefers a waterworld lifestyle and rarely comes on land. It's the males who really piece together the fashion puzzle, as they boast a big bulb on the tip of their snout when mature, like their wild interpretation of a gentleman's top hat. Apart from their fish meals, Gharials also filter water and take mud baths to keep their scales sparkling.
Fun Fact: Pink flamingoes aren't the only dignified posers around! Gharials actually sunbathe - neat, huh? They relish basking under the sun to regulate their body temperature.
| Gharial | |
|---|---|
| Size | Up to 20 feet (6.1 meters) |
| Weight | Up to 2,000 pounds (907 kilograms) |
| Speed | Speed: 6 mph (9.6 km/hr) |
| Key Strength | Powerful jaws and long snout for catching fish |
| Biggest Weakness | Teeth not designed for tearing flesh |
| Scientific Name | Gavialis gangeticus |
| Family | Gavialidae |
| Habitat | Rivers |
| Geography | India and Nepal |
| Diet | Fish |
| Lifespan | 30 years - 60 years |
Gharial Matchups
We use AI to simulate matchups between the Gharial and other animals. Our simulation considers size, strength, and natural predatory behaviors to determine the most likely outcome.
Fun Fact: The Gharial might be the long-jumper of the reptile world! While it doesn't walk too often, when it does, it slides on its belly and can actually "high walk" with its body elevated off the ground.
Fun Fact: In the Gharial world, males are the ones with a fashion accessory! They grow a distinctive bulb, also called a 'ghara', on their snouts. Scientists believe this could be their personal amplifier, helping to resonate their calls.