Crocodylidae, whose members are called crocodiles or true crocodiles, is a family of large, semiaquatic reptiles living throughout the tropics of Africa, Asia, the Americas and Australia. All species are sensitive to cold, unlike alligators, and feed carnivorously on vertebrates and occasionally invertebrates, with several species facing extinction risk.
Facts
Taxonomic Rank Scientific Name Member Species/Taxa Count Geographic DistributionCrocodiles live throughout the tropics of Africa, Asia, the Americas and Australia. 1 Defining CharacteristicsTrue crocodiles are large, semiaquatic, carnivorous reptiles that feed mostly on vertebrates such as fish, reptiles, birds and mammals, and unlike alligators are tropical species highly sensitive to cold. 1 Identification
Distinguishing AppearanceCrocodiles have webbed feet, smooth skin on the belly and sides, and dorsal surfaces armoured with large bony osteoderms. 1 Classification
Living or Extinct In the Other Atlases
- Also in Geography Atlas: Africa, found in there.
- Also in Geography Atlas: Asia, found in there.
- Also in Geography Atlas: Australia, found in there.
- Also in Geography Atlas: Tropics, found in there.
Sources
1. Crocodylidae (Wikipedia)
WikipediaLead section, first sentence
A crocodile (family Crocodylidae) or true crocodile is a large, semiaquatic reptile that lives throughout the tropics in Africa, Asia, the Americas and Australia.
Species section, first sentence
A total of 18 extant species have been recognized.
Lead section, fifth sentence
All crocodiles are tropical species that, unlike alligators, are very sensitive to cold.
Characteristics section, second sentence
Crocodiles have smooth skin on their bellies and sides, while their dorsal surfaces are armoured with large osteoderms.
View the Source 2. Crocodylidae (Wikipedia)
Wikidata: Crocodylidae
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