Alligator sinensis

Information about the Chinese Alligator:

The Chinese Alligator is one of only two species of alligator. While its appearance is very similar to the only other living member of the genus, the American alligator, there are a few differences. Usually this species is smaller than the American species, and an adult only reaches a length of 5 feet (1.5 m) and a mass of 80 pounds (36 kg). Unlike the American alligator, the Chinese alligator is fully armored; even the belly is armored, which is a feature of only a few crocodilians. The Chinese alligator is class one endangered species and listed as a CITES Appendix I species, which puts extreme restrictions on its trade and exportation throughout the world. The Chinese alligator is mainly endangered because of habitat pollution and reduction as their distribution areas are turned into rice paddies. Extermination is also an issue, as farmers consider them to be a menace. Overall, the Chinese alligator lives in a subtropical, temperate region. The Chinese alligator's usual habitat was in places of low-elevation and freshwater sources. This includes marshes, lakes, streams, and ponds. Wetlands are extremely important to the Chinese alligators due to the biodiversity that is within them. Despite conservation efforts, it is very likely this species will go extinct in the wild soon, and the only living specimens will be in captivity.

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