About 

• Gharials (Gavialis gangeticus), also known as gavials, are a type of freshwater crocodile species.
• They are distinguished by their long, thin snouts lined with numerous sharp, interlocking teeth.
• Males are significantly larger than females.
• Males develop a bulbous growth at the tip of their snout, called “ghara” which is absent in females.
  • The ghara partially covers the crocodile’s nostrils and acts as a vocal resonator, creating a loud, buzzing sound helping males attract a mate.
• They are piscivorous in their diet as they primarily feed on fish.
• They are considered as indicator species for healthy river ecosystems.
  • Indicator species are organisms whose presence, absence, or abundance reflects the overall health of an ecosystem.

Geographical Distribution:

• Historically, gharials were found in the river system of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and southern part of Bhutan and Nepal. 
• Today, their major population occurs in three tributaries of the Ganga River: the Chambal and the Girwa Rivers in India and the Rapti-Narayani River in Nepal. 

Conservation Status:

• IUCN Red List: Critically Endangered; CITES: Appendix I; Wildlife Protection Act (2022): Schedule I.