Question

Which one of the following is the largest of all living reptiles?

• A. Asian giant tortoise
• B. Estuarine crocodile
• C. Mugger crocodile
• D. Gharial

Hint:

The Estuarine or Saltwater crocodile is widely studied in wildlife management due to its immense bite force and status as an apex predator in coastal ecosystems.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This question focuses on the biological categorization and anatomical scale of modern reptiles.
Reptiles present a vast spectrum of physical sizes, with crocodilians representing the largest living forms.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us evaluate each of the given reptilian options:
1. Asian giant tortoise (Manouria emys):
This is indeed the largest tortoise species in mainland Asia, reaching weights of up to 37 kg.
However, this is extremely small compared to large semi-aquatic crocodilians.
2. Estuarine crocodile (Crocodylus porosus):
Also known as the Saltwater crocodile, this species is scientifically recognized as the largest living reptile on Earth.
Mature males can grow up to lengths of 5 to 6 meters (16 to 20 feet) and weigh between 450 and 1,000 kg.
They inhabit coastal brackish wetlands, estuaries, and river deltas across the Indo-Pacific.
3. Mugger crocodile (Crocodylus palustris):
The Mugger is a freshwater crocodile native to the Indian subcontinent.
Adults typically grow to moderate lengths of 3 to 4 meters, making them much smaller than their estuarine counterparts.
4. Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus):
The Gharial is characterized by an extremely elongated and slender snout.
Although they can reach lengths comparable to other crocodilians, their body mass is significantly less than that of the heavy-bodied Estuarine crocodile.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The Estuarine crocodile is the largest living reptile in terms of length and body mass.
Therefore, Option (B) is correct.