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Chinese Alligator

(Alligator sinensis)

 

Category: Reptiles

 

 

This species is significantly smaller than its only close cousin, the American alligator. It is further distinguished from its American relative by its fully armored body – even its underside is protected by thick, horny scales. This species is critically endangered in the wild due to habitat conversion and inhabits only a tiny portion of its original range.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_alligator

http://www.stlzoo.org/animals/abouttheanimals/reptiles/alligatorsandcrocodiles/chinesealligator

 

Data & Facts

Scientific Classification
Kingdom - Animalia
Phylum - Chordata
Order - Crocodilia
Family - Alligatoridae
Genus - Alligator
Species - A. sinensis

 
Did you know?
Interesting Animal Facts

The report of my breath was an exaggeration

For years, the Komodo dragon was accused of having a mouth so filthy that even if you escaped its terrible bite, you were doomed to eventually die from the ensuing bacterial infection. However, recent studies on Komodo dragons demonstrated that this was unfair, as they have mouths cleaner than many mammalian carnivores. It turns out the reality is worse than the myth: they have poison glands! Komodo dragons produce a venom that sends prey into shock while keeping its blood from clotting. A deer or pig who “escapes” will run off and go into shock, often bleeding out from its wounds within 3 hours, leaving an easy treat for the dragon.

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