Did you know that Senyulong crocodiles are different from estuarine crocodiles? Let’s check it out together!
Senyulong crocodiles (Tomistoma schlegelii), also known as the Tomistoma crocodile, is a unique and exotic species of crocodile. It has a similar appearance to the true gharial crocodile (Gavialis gangeticus), but there are distinguishable differences.
The false gharial or senyulong crocodile is a freshwater reptile with a very thin and long snout. Additionally, it is dark reddish-brown above, featuring dark brown or black spots and crossbands on its back and tail. Native to Peninsular Malaysia, Sarawak, and Indonesia (Sumatra and Borneo), false gharials thrive in their respective habitats.
Successful breeding of False Gharial or Senyulong Crocodiles
That’s interesting, False Gharial is a freshwater, mound-nesting crocodilian with a distinctively long, narrow snout. Habitat loss endangers them with the possibility of extinction, and people also hunt them for their skin and meat. Moreover, humans often harvest their eggs for consumption.
Unfortunately, the False Gharial population has declined drastically due to illegal hunting, loss of habitat and conflict with humans. Several countries have taken steps to protect this species, including regulating hunting and establishing game reserves. Moreover, preservation of this species is very important to maintain the balance of the ecosystem and biodiversity in the region. Additionally, the False Gharial Breeding at Taman Safari Bali is a successful venture. However, the provision of large enough land for animal husbandry is still a challenge that we face.
FALSE and TRUE “GHARIAL”
Both of them are gharials, the gharial is member of the Gavialidae family (semiacuatic crocodilans with elongated, narrow snouts), This is the differences :
THE TRUE GHARIAL
- They are known as gavials.
- The color is darker, almost black.
- It has many interlocked teeth on its long, narrow snout.
- They distributed in India.
THE FALSE GHARIAL
- They are known as Malayan gharials.
- The color is lighter, more olive-green.
- It has fewer teeth on its wider muzzle.
- They are distributed in Peninsular Malaysia, Sarawak, and Indonesia (Sumatra and Borneo).
It is interesting to learn about each diverse animal species. Bali Safari provides recreation and education in one advanced safari concept. Let’s visit Bali Safari and learn more about animals. Bali Safari is the best zoo in Asia!
