What is the difference between a crocodile and an alligator?

Definition : What is a crocodile ?

The crocodile is a semi-aquatic reptile belonging to the order Crocodilians, characterized by a long, pointed snout, sharp teeth, a powerful tail and rough scales. Crocodiles are large carnivorous predators, capable of hunting animals much larger than themselves. They are widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions of the world, whether in rivers, lakes or swamps.

Definition: What is an alligator?

The alligator is another semi-aquatic reptile belonging to the family Alligatoridae. It can be distinguished from crocodiles by its shorter, wider snout, teeth visible only in the upper jaw, and darker colors. Alligators live primarily in wetlands and swamps in the eastern United States and parts of Mexico.

What is the difference between a crocodile and an alligator?

The main difference between the two is the shape of their snouts: longer and narrower in the crocodile, shorter and wider in the alligator. In general, alligators also tend to be slightly smaller than crocodiles, although there is considerable variation between species. Crocodile teeth are also more visible, even when they close their mouths, while alligator teeth are hidden. Both are formidable predators, but behavior and feeding habits differ between species.