Gharials, also known as Gavialis gangeticus, are a unique species of crocodilian that split from other crocodilian species over 40 million years ago. These fascinating creatures can be found in freshwater rivers in India and Nepal, where they primarily feed on fish. Juveniles also consume insects, frogs, and crustaceans, showcasing a diverse diet.
One of the most remarkable features of the gharial is its long, skinny snout, which resembles a snout that has been slammed in a door. Adult male gharials have a distinctive “ghara” at the end of their snouts, a lightbulb-shaped bump that is named after a bulbous Indian pot. This peculiar lump not only looks attractive to females but also helps males attract mates by blowing bubbles and creating a unique love song.
The ghara partially covers the crocodile’s nostrils and acts as a vocal resonator, producing a loud, buzzing sound when the gharial vocalizes. These crocodilian pickup lines are crucial for male gharials to successfully attract females, as gharials are known to be polygamous and may mate with several females.
Mating typically occurs between gharials in December or January, with females laying around 40 large eggs in nests dug during the dry season in March or April. These eggs are the largest of all crocodilian eggs, weighing up to 6 ounces (170 grams), similar to the weight of a hockey puck. Once fully grown, adult gharials can reach up to 15 feet (4.5 meters) in length and weigh around 350 pounds (160 kilograms) on average.
Unlike other crocodile species, gharials are not ambush predators. Instead, they use their long snouts to snatch fish from the water and consume them. Their unique hunting technique involves detecting vibrations in the water by swiping their snouts from left to right, allowing them to locate nearby fish and capture them with their interlocking teeth.
While gharials may resemble crocodiles or alligators, they separated from other crocodilian species over 40 million years ago. These creatures are well-adapted to aquatic environments but struggle to move effectively on land due to their weak leg muscles, often resorting to sliding on their bellies to navigate above water.
Unfortunately, gharials are currently facing a critical endangerment status due to factors such as hunting, fishing, and habitat loss. In the 1940s, there were an estimated 5,000 to 10,000 wild gharials between Pakistan and Myanmar. However, the population has drastically declined, with only around 650 mature individuals remaining today. Conservation efforts, including captive breeding and nest monitoring, have helped increase this number from approximately 250 individuals in 2006.
Melissa Hobson, a freelance writer with a passion for marine science and conservation, has extensively researched and written about the unique behaviors of marine creatures. Her work has been featured in various publications, including National Geographic, the Guardian, and New Scientist, highlighting the importance of protecting endangered species like the gharial.
