Animal
False gharial
A long, narrow snout reveals the hunting method of this Asian wetland reptile.
Idioma del contenido
The most distinctive feature of the false gharial is its long, narrow snout. This shape is well suited to catching fish, the mainstay of its diet. It is not exclusively a fish-eater, however. From time to time it also takes birds and mammals, broadening its range of prey.
Males of this species are noticeably longer and heavier than females. Łódź’s pair, Kraken and Penelopa, illustrates the difference. The zoo describes Kraken as measuring more than five metres, while his partner is considerably smaller. Their space in the Orientarium provides views both on land and underwater. When the animals submerge, they can be watched through the pool’s glass; out of the water, they rest on the dry part of the enclosure.
The species’ natural habitat is disappearing through wetland drainage and forest clearance. Fires and conversion of land to oil palm plantations are further threats. Losing swamp forest changes the whole network of places to live and hunt. The reptile’s scientific name is Tomistoma schlegelii. The Polish alternative name “pseudogawial” refers to this same species, rather than to a different resident of the pool.
Para niños
This reptile’s long snout is much narrower than that of many other crocodilians. It helps catch fish, its main food. Sometimes it also eats birds and mammals.
Kraken and Penelopa live at Łódź Zoo. Male false gharials are larger than females, and Kraken measures more than five metres. Penelopa is much smaller. Their home has a dry area and a pool. When a false gharial dives, you can watch it through the glass.
In the wild, these reptiles need wetlands and forests. Draining marshes, cutting trees and fires take away their homes. You may see the Polish word “pseudogawial” in a description. It means the same animal. It is not the name of a third resident or a separate species.
Pregunta 1 de 2
Which prey is the narrow snout especially useful for catching?
- Ubicación
- Orientarium, Sunda Islands zone, false gharial pool.