Crocodylus

Crocodylus is a genus of true crocodiles in the family Crocodylidae. It comprises nine living species found in tropical regions of Africa, Asia, the Americas, and Oceania. The name derives from the Greek krokódilos.

These are large, semi-aquatic reptiles with broad snouts, rough scales, and powerful jaws. They are highly aquatic but can move extensively on land, and many species inhabit freshwater rivers, lakes, swamps, and estuaries; some tolerate brackish water, and Crocodylus porosus is notably saltwater-tolerant.

Species include Crocodylus niloticus, Crocodylus porosus, Crocodylus acutus, Crocodylus palustris, Crocodylus suchus, Crocodylus intermedius, Crocodylus novaeguineae, Crocodylus mindorensis, and Crocodylus rhombifer.

They are oviparous; females construct nests and guard the eggs until hatching. Incubation periods range roughly from 60 to 100 days, influenced by temperature, which also affects sex determination. Hatchlings receive parental protection for a period after emergence.

Conservation status varies by species. Several Crocodylus species are threatened by habitat loss, hunting for skins, pollution, and human conflict. Many are protected under national laws and CITES, with ongoing conservation programs to monitor populations and maintain habitats.