What is the Difference Between Alligators and Crocodiles?

The main differences between alligators and crocodiles can be summarized in terms of snout shape, color, habitat, and aggressiveness:

1. Snout Shape: Alligators have a wider, U-shaped snout, while crocodiles have a pointier, V-shaped snout.
2. Color: Alligators are darker, blackish-grey in color, while crocodiles are lighter, olive green or brown color.
3. Habitat: Alligators prefer fresh water, while crocodiles tend to prefer saltwater or brackish water, which is a combination of saltwater and freshwater.
4. Aggressiveness: Although both alligators and crocodiles can be dangerous, alligators are usually much less aggressive than crocodiles.

It's worth noting that alligators are native to the Southern United States and China, while crocodiles can be found in Africa, Australia, India, Central America, and the Pacific.

Comparative Table: Alligators vs Crocodiles

Here is a table highlighting the differences between alligators and crocodiles:

Alligators have a shorter, broader, and rounder snout, while crocodiles have a longer, narrower, and more pointed snout. In alligators, the lower teeth are typically not visible when the mouth is closed, but in crocodiles, some lower teeth, most notably the large fourth tooth, are visible. Alligators are darker in color, with a blackish-grey hue, while crocodiles are lighter, appearing olive green or brown. Alligators prefer fresh water, whereas crocodiles are found in saltwater or brackish water habitats. The two species also differ in their native habitats, with alligators found in the Southern United States and China, and crocodiles found in Africa, Australia, India, Central America, and the Pacific. Finally, alligators are generally less aggressive than crocodiles.