How are crocodilians adapted to an aquatic environment?
• Crocodilians can hold their breath under water for a long time because they don’t move much and therefore don’t expend a lot of energy. • When submerging under water, they close their ear and nostril flaps. They have a third eyelid, called the nictitating membrane that protects their eyes underwater. • Vibration sensors and touch receptors help them to feel movements of prey in the water. • When feeding underwater the back of the tongue acts as a valve to stop water from going into their lungs. How long can crocodilians hold their breath underwater? • Usually they can hold their breath from 4 – 15 minutes but can remain underwater for two hours if needed and if they aren’t stressed. • The record time spent underwater is 8 hours in freezing conditions; this is because a cold crocodile uses less energy and oxygen so it can hold its breath longer than a warm one. What do crocodilians eat? • They eat anything from dragonflies and bats to sharks, antelopes and even buffalo. How do crocodi
