The crocodile is a lizard-like, flesh-eating reptile. They are generally found
in rivers, lakes, wetlands and sometimes in brackish water. Some species, notably
the Saltwater Crocodile of Australia, Southeast Asia and the Pacific islands
often live along the coastal areas. They are the heaviest and largest of all
present-day reptiles. Crocodilians are the worlds largest and perhaps most exciting
reptiles.
They are also great survivors and their prehistoric ancestors. Crocodiles
have long snouts that vary in proportion and shape. Because their eyes and nostrils
are on top of their head, crocodiles can see and breathe even when their body
is submerged in water. Crocodiles also have short and powerful legs. They also
have a powerful tail by which they can push their body to swim faster.
Their front legs have five toes, and their hind legs have four wholly or partially
webbed toes. They have witnessed the rise and fall of the dinosaurs and have
seen the evolution of mammals and birds. Since human came under existence and
colonized the world 17 out of 23 species are living in this world. Crocodiles
are cold - blooded reptiles and can maintain their body temperature according
to the surrounding air, land and water.
Being predator and prey, the crocodile plays an important role in keeping
a wetland ecosystem healthy and when a wetland habitat is healthy, the fishery
is considered to be healthy too. Crocodiles play an important role in wetland
environments. They help keep the balance in the complex web of life in freshwater
and estuarine ecosystems. They are key predators at the top of the food chain
and eat a wide range of prey. Humans have been hunting crocodiles for their
skin by means of which humans can make shoes, bags, belts, suitcases, briefcase
and handbags etc.
