Dwarf crocodile

The dwarf crocodile is a small crocodilian native to forests and swamps of West and Central Africa. It is classified in the genus Osteolaemus.

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Osteolaemus: A crocodilian genus native to West and Central Africa, containing the dwarf crocodile. This is the genus in which the dwarf crocodile is classified.
Crocodilian locomotion: The ways crocodilians move on land and through water using their limbs and tails. The dwarf crocodile swims with powerful tail strokes and also travels over land.
Dwarf crocodile conservation: Research and measures aimed at protecting dwarf crocodiles and their habitats. Population assessments guide protection of this poorly surveyed species.
Nile crocodile: A large crocodile native to freshwater habitats across much of sub-Saharan Africa. It shares the continent but is far larger and occupies a broader range of habitats.
Crocodilia: The order of reptiles that includes crocodiles, alligators, caimans, and gharials. The dwarf crocodile belongs to this broader group of living reptiles.
Crocodilian feeding: The capture, handling, and digestion of food by crocodilians. Its diet includes aquatic and terrestrial prey caught near cover.
CITES: An international agreement regulating trade in wild animals and plants and their products. Trade controls apply to dwarf crocodiles and products made from them.
West African crocodile: A medium-sized crocodile native to parts of West and Central Africa. It overlaps geographically, but differs in size, appearance, and habitat use.
Crocodylidae: The family of crocodilians that includes true crocodiles and the dwarf crocodile. This family places Osteolaemus among the true crocodilians.
Crocodilian sensory systems: The sensory structures crocodilians use to detect prey and environmental changes. Sensory organs around the jaws help detect movement in water.