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The Nonindigenous Occurrences section of the NAS species profiles has a new structure. The section is now dynamically updated from the NAS database to ensure that it contains the most current and accurate information. Occurrences are summarized in Table 1, alphabetically by state, with years of earliest and most recent observations, and the tally and names of drainages where the species was observed. The table contains hyperlinks to collections tables of specimens based on the states, years, and drainages selected. References to specimens that were not obtained through sighting reports and personal communications are found through the hyperlink in the Table 1 caption or through the individual specimens linked in the collections tables.




Mecistops cataphractus
Mecistops cataphractus
(African Gavial)
Reptiles-Crocodilians
Exotic

Copyright Info
Mecistops cataphractus Cuvier, 1825

Common name: African Gavial

Synonyms and Other Names: African Slender-snouted Crocodile. Formerly Crocodylus cataphractus.

Taxonomy: available through www.itis.govITIS logo

Native Range: The Slender-Snouted Crocodile is endemic to the equatorial rain forest belt of central and West Africa (Kofron, 1992).

Hydrologic Unit Codes (HUCs) Explained
Interactive maps: Point Distribution Maps

Nonindigenous Occurrences:

Table 1. States with nonindigenous occurrences, the earliest and latest observations in each state, and the tally and names of HUCs with observations†. Names and dates are hyperlinked to their relevant specimen records. The list of references for all nonindigenous occurrences of Mecistops cataphractus are found here.

StateFirst ObservedLast ObservedTotal HUCs with observations†HUCs with observations†
FL198619861Florida Southeast Coast

Table last updated 12/13/2024

† Populations may not be currently present.


Means of Introduction: Escaped from zoo.

Status: Failed in Florida.

Impact of Introduction: The impacts of this species are currently unknown, as no studies have been done to determine how it has affected ecosystems in the invaded range. The absence of data does not equate to lack of effects. It does, however, mean that research is required to evaluate effects before conclusions can be made.

Remarks: Three juveniles were stolen from Crandon Park Zoo on 25 March, 1983 and one individual was recovered three years later near the Crandon Park Zoo grounds.

References: (click for full references)

Kofron, C.P. 1992. Status and habitats of the three African crocodiles in Liberia. Journal of Tropical Ecology 8(3):265-273.

Krysko, K.L., J.P. Burgess, M.R. Rochford, C.R. Gillette, D. Cueva, K.M. Enge, L.A. Somma, J.L. Stabile, D.C. Smith, J.A. Wasilewski, G.N. Kieckhefer, III, M.C. Granatosky, and S.V. Nielsen. 2011. Verified non-indigenous amphibians and reptiles in Florida from 1863 through 2010: Outlining the invasion process and identifying invasion pathways and stages. Zootaxa 3028:1-64.

Author: Powell, R.S.

Revision Date: 4/17/2019

Citation Information:
Powell, R.S., 2024, Mecistops cataphractus Cuvier, 1825: U.S. Geological Survey, Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Database, Gainesville, FL, https://nas.er.usgs.gov/queries/FactSheet.aspx?speciesID=2906, Revision Date: 4/17/2019, Access Date: 12/13/2024

This information is preliminary or provisional and is subject to revision. It is being provided to meet the need for timely best science. The information has not received final approval by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and is provided on the condition that neither the USGS nor the U.S. Government shall be held liable for any damages resulting from the authorized or unauthorized use of the information.

Disclaimer:

The data represented on this site vary in accuracy, scale, completeness, extent of coverage and origin. It is the user's responsibility to use these data consistent with their intended purpose and within stated limitations. We highly recommend reviewing metadata files prior to interpreting these data.

Citation information: U.S. Geological Survey. [2024]. Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Database. Gainesville, Florida. Accessed [12/13/2024].

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