Crocodile Scientific Name: This article provides detailed information about the Crocodile, focusing on its Scientific Name and Classification. Here you’ll find the complete taxonomic hierarchy from kingdom to species, along with a short description of its habitat, behavior, and biological significance.
Crocodile Scientific Name and Common Name
The scientific name of the Crocodile is Crocodylus niloticus, and its common name is Nile Crocodile (though “crocodile” generally refers to the whole family Crocodylidae). The scientific name helps zoologists accurately identify and differentiate crocodiles from similar reptilian species such as alligators and caimans.
| Scientific Name | Crocodylus niloticus |
| Common Name | Nile Crocodile |
Crocodile Classification
Crocodiles are cold-blooded reptiles that belong to the ancient order of crocodilians. They play an essential role as apex predators in maintaining ecological balance. Here’s the full biological classification of the crocodile:
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Reptilia
- Order: Crocodylia
- Family: Crocodylidae
- Genus: Crocodylus
- Species: niloticus
This classification highlights the crocodile’s evolutionary connection to other reptiles, dating back millions of years.
About Crocodile
Crocodiles inhabit freshwater rivers, lakes, and marshes across tropical regions of Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Americas. They are ambush predators known for their powerful jaws and stealth hunting. As apex predators, they regulate fish and bird populations, ensuring healthy aquatic ecosystems. Crocodiles bask in the sun for thermoregulation and can remain underwater for extended periods using their specialized breathing adaptations.
FAQs on Scientific Name, Common Name and Classification of Crocodile
What is the scientific name of Crocodile?
The scientific name of the Crocodile is Crocodylus niloticus.
What is the common name of Crocodylus niloticus?
The common name is Nile Crocodile.
To which kingdom does Crocodile belong?
It belongs to the Kingdom Animalia.
What is the phylum classification of Crocodile?
It comes under the Phylum Chordata.
What is the class of Crocodile in biological classification?
It belongs to the Class Reptilia.
Under which order is Crocodile classified?
It is classified under the Order Crocodylia.
What is the family of Crocodile?
The family of Crocodile is Crocodylidae.
What is the genus and species of Crocodile?
The genus is Crocodylus, and the species is niloticus.
Why is scientific classification important for Crocodile?
Scientific classification helps zoologists identify, study, and conserve crocodile species accurately, maintaining clarity in research and ecological management.
Additional Note
The Scientific Name is also commonly referred to as the Biological Name, Science Name, or Zoological Name. All of these terms mean the same thing – the Scientific Name – so there is no need to get confused.