Crocodiles are one of the oldest reptiles whose prehistoric species lived in the Jurassic period; they are considered the largest reptiles of our time. Currently, 12 species of crocodiles are known, as well as several species of alligators and caimans close to them.
Teeth
Crocodiles are often confused with alligators, although in fact they have many differences, the most important of which is the structure of the teeth.
So how many crocodile teeth and how are they made? When the jaw of the reptile is closed, the fourth tooth is clearly visible from below - this, by the way, is the main difference from alligators - they are all closed. The teeth of a crocodile are conical in shape with a hollow inner surface in which new incisors are formed. Fangs change approximately once every two years and during his whole life can be updated up to 50 times. The tongue, on the contrary, is completely ingrown into the lower jaw, which is why some believe that this organ does not exist at all in the crocodile.
But how many teeth does a crocodile have? In total, on average there are 64 to 80 of them, depending on the species, but they are arranged exactly the same for everyone. The teeth of the crocodile are not adapted to chewing, he is only able to tear large pieces from his victim and swallow them. That is why, if the prey is too large to swallow it whole, crocodiles drag it to the depths and begin to “twist” pieces of meat from it.
Often they lose their teeth, but in their place new ones grow quite quickly.
But, despite how many teeth a crocodile has, their bite is strong enough, its strength can be compared with the pressure force of a truck. A powerful jaw is necessary for him to transfer the bones and shells of animals.
Chinese alligator
Another species of reptile is the Chinese alligator. This is a relatively small crocodile, reaching a length of no more than one and a half meters. They differ from the rest of alligators in spotty color. They live mainly near the Yangtze River in Asia, are listed in the Red Book as a small species. They feed mainly on waterfowl, fish and snakes. They throw themselves at people only in case of a threat. In general, they are distinguished by a rather flexible character, thanks to which they get along well with a person and can remember up to six people with whom they are in contact.
Interesting facts about crocodiles
Some New Guinean tribes attribute the crocodiles to sacred animals, so young men deliberately disfigure their skin so that the scars on it resemble the skin of a reptile.
They really cry while eating, but this is not because they feel sorry for their victim, but because air is released through the lacrimal glands, which enters the crocodile during the meal.
The stomach of a crocodile can contain up to 5 kg of stones, which help them to better dive and stay on the surface of the water.
Despite the fact that the jaw of the crocodile has a lot of pressure, the muscles that are responsible for opening the mouth are quite weak. It is enough to hold her hand to prevent her from opening.
A crocodile is able to do without food for a year.
Crocodile blood contains a natural antibiotic, thanks to which these retilia do not have inflammation and gangrene, no matter what wounds inflicted on them.
Despite how many teeth a crocodile has and what a frightening look he has as a whole, there are whole farms where people breed them in thousands. And in some families, this reptile lives as a pet.