American Crocodile Teaching Skull Replica

Description

The American crocodile teaching skull is a museum-quality replica cast in durable polyurethane resin. This two-part specimen features a separate cranium and jaw. Proudly made in the USA, the replica measures 21.0 x 9.0 x 6.0 inches.

Species Profile

The American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) is the most widespread crocodilian in the Neotropics. Its range stretches from South Florida and the Mexican coasts down to Peru and Venezuela.

Physical Characteristics

• Anatomy: This quadruped features four short, stocky legs and a long, powerful tail.
• Armor: Its hide is covered in rows of ossified scutes (bony plates).
• Head & Jaws: It possesses an elongated snout with a strong pair of jaws.
• Sensory Adaptations: The eyes, ears, and nostrils sit atop the head. This allows the crocodile to remain submerged and concealed for surprise attacks.
• Eye Protection: The eyes feature nictitating membranes for protection and lacrimal glands that produce tears.

Behavior & Appearance

• Comparison: Compared to the American alligator, this species has a longer, narrower snout and a paler, grayish color. Its snout is broader than that of the Orinoco crocodile.
• Movement: While it usually crawls on its belly, it can also perform a “high walk.”
• Speed: Large specimens can charge on land at nearly 10 mph. In the water, they reach speeds of 20 mph by moving their bodies in a sinuous motion.

Scientific classification:

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Reptilia
• Order: Crocodilia
• Family: Crocodylidae
• Genus: Crocodylus
• Species: C. acutus
• Binomial name: Crocodylus acutus Cuvier, 1807
• Conservation status: Vulnerable (IUCN 3.1)

Related Specimens
If you find this replica interesting, you may also like our American alligator, Nile crocodile, or the broad-snouted caiman. Shop for more museum-quality replicas in our reptile store.