Mecistops cataphractus (African Gavial) Reptiles-Crocodilians Exotic
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Common name: African Gavial
Synonyms and Other Names: African Slender-snouted Crocodile. Formerly Crocodylus cataphractus.
Taxonomy: available through
www.itis.gov
Native Range: The Slender-Snouted Crocodile is endemic to the equatorial rain forest belt of central and West Africa (Kofron, 1992).
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Guam Saipan |
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.
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.
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.