The gharial, Gavialis gangeticus, is a highly specialised crocodilian of major river systems in India and Nepal. Its long, narrow jaws and interlocking teeth are adapted for catching fish. This species is very different in appearance from broad-snouted alligators and many true crocodiles.
Built for a fish-based diet
A narrow snout reduces resistance as the gharial moves its head through water. The teeth help grip slippery prey. Young gharials eat a wider range of small aquatic animals, while adults feed mainly on fish. A specialised jaw does not make the animal harmless: wild gharials are still large reptiles that should never be approached.
The ghara of adult males
Mature males develop a bulbous structure at the tip of the snout called a ghara. It is used in visual and acoustic courtship displays. Females are smaller and do not develop this structure, making the ghara one of the clearest signs of adult sexual dimorphism.
A crocodilian, but not a true crocodile
Gharials are crocodilians, but they are not members of the true-crocodile family Crocodylidae. They belong to Gavialidae. The false gharial, Tomistoma schlegelii, is also placed in Gavialidae by modern molecular classifications, although it is a different genus and species from the Indian gharial.
Why river protection matters
Gharials depend on large rivers with suitable fish populations, nesting sandbanks and connected habitat. Dams, sand mining, fishing-net entanglement and disturbance can all affect them. Their conservation is inseparable from the health of the river systems they use.
