Until the 1920s, Morelet’s crocodiles were confused with both the American and Cuban crocodiles. The main distinction is their unusually broad snout. Morelet’s crocodiles have 66-68 teeth. The teeth in the upper and lower jaws are in perfect alignment, which distinguishes all crocodiles from alligators. The fourth tooth, on either side of the bottom jaw, is slightly larger than the other teeth and is visible when the mouth is closed. They are dark greyish-brown, with even darker bands and spots on the body and tail. The dorsal armour is irregular and the neck scales are heavy. The body lacks ventral osteoderms (bony plates in the skin) and is highly valuable for tanning. The iris is silvery-brown in colour. The legs are powerful and end in clawed, webbed feet. The strong tail, allows them to swim with powerful thrusts. Juveniles are bright yellow in colour with black bands. |
