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Animals & Nature
crocodile
reptile order, Crocodylia
Also known as: Crocodilia, Crocodylia, crocodilian
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Animals & Nature
- Related Topics:
- Deinosuchus
- Protosuchia
- Mesosuchia
- Sebecosuchia
- Eusuchia
crocodile, (order Crocodylia, or Crocodilia), any of about 27 species of generally large, ponderous, amphibious animals of lizard-like appearance and carnivorous habit belonging to the reptile order Crocodylia. Crocodiles have powerful jaws with many conical teeth and short legs with clawed webbed toes. They share a unique body form that allows the eyes, ears, and nostrils to be above the water surface while most of the animal is hidden below. The tail is long and massive, and the skin is thick and plated. Crocodiles are a living link with the dinosaur-like reptiles of prehistoric times and are the nearest living ...(100 of 3823 words)