Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus): The Endangered Long-Snouted Crocodile of India and Nepal

Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus) is a species of crocodile found in India and Nepal. It is also known as the Ganges gharial or the long-snouted gharial. The gharial is one of the most endangered crocodilians in the world, with a population estimated to be less than 200 individuals in the wild.

The gharial is characterized by its long, slender snout, which can be up to twice the length of its skull. This distinctive feature allows the gharial to feed on fish and other aquatic prey that are too small to be caught by other crocodilians. The gharial also has a distinctive bump on its forehead, known as a "casque," which is thought to be used for communication and mating.

The gharial is found in freshwater habitats such as rivers, lakes, and wetlands in India and Nepal. It is a carnivorous species that feeds on fish, crustaceans, and other small aquatic animals. The gharial is also known to scavenge on carrion and other dead animals.

The main threats to the gharial are habitat loss and degradation, hunting for its skin and meat, and competition with other crocodilians. Conservation efforts are underway to protect the gharial and its habitats, including the establishment of protected areas and the reintroduction of captive-bred individuals into the wild.