Gavialis

Gavialis is a genus of crocodilians in the family Gavialidae. The only living member of the genus is Gavialis gangeticus, commonly known as the gharial or fish-eating crocodile. The genus also comprises several extinct species known from fossil records, which indicate a wider historical distribution in Asia.

The gharial is notable for its extremely elongated, narrow snout, which is lined with sharp teeth suited to catching fish. Adults can reach up to about six meters in length, with males developing a bulbous nasal protrusion called a ghara during the breeding season, used in vocalizations and sexual display.

Gavialis gangeticus is native to the Indian subcontinent. Historically, gharials inhabited a broad range of rivers across the region, but today they persist in only a few large river systems in India and Nepal. Protected areas such as the National Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary and Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary support remaining populations. The species’ range has contracted due to habitat loss, river damming and modification, pollution, and declines in fish populations.

Ecology and behavior centers on its preference for freshwater river habitats with sandbanks for nesting. Gharials are primarily piscivorous, spending much time basking near river edges. Reproduction occurs on sandbanks, where females lay eggs and incubate them for several weeks before hatching.

Conservation status: The gharial is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Conservation measures include habitat protection and restoration, captive breeding and reintroduction programs, and legal protections in range countries, alongside efforts to reduce bycatch and maintain healthy fish populations.