Gharial
Gharials, sometimes called gavials, are a type of Asian crocodilian distinguished by their long, thin snouts.
Crocodilians are a group of reptiles that includes crocodiles, alligators, caimans, and more.
India has three species of Crocodilians namely: Gharial, Mugger crocodile, Saltwater crocodile
Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus): IUCN Red List- Critically Endangered
All the three are listed on Appendix I of CITES and Schedule I of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972
Where do gharials live?
Gharials were once widespread across South Asia, from Pakistan to Myanmar
Today they survive only in the waters of India and Nepal
In India their major population occur in three tributaries of the Ganga River: the Chambal and the Girwa Rivers in India and the Rapti-Naryani River in Nepal.
The Gharial reserves of India are located in three States – Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.
Significance: Population of Gharials are a good indicator of clean river water.
Why are gharials critically endangered?
Damming and diversion of the rivers
Overfishing
Sand mining is harming their nesting areas
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