Crocodile Would Snap Up an Aligator, Not Gonna See it Later

Spencer

June 20, 2025

For many people, the idea of a massive reptile capable of eating people is quite terrifying, but which is more terrifying? Which would win in a fight? There are many different types of these aquatic reptiles in the crocodilian family, including caimans, alligators, gharials, and of course, crocodiles. We will be looking at two of the most dangerous types, alligators versus crocodiles. I am here to quickly show you why, in almost any case, the immensely powerful crocodile would quickly snap up any alligator. 

First, it is important to know the differences between alligators and crocodiles. At a glance, they look very similar, and almost identical to the untrained eye. However, there are some easy characteristics to look for that can show the difference between the two. Crocodiles have V-shaped snouts, with teeth exposed from the upper and bottom jaws when their mouths are closed. They are typically greenish-brown in color, live in salt or brackish water, and are usually larger than alligators. Alligators have a U-shaped snout with only the teeth from their top jaws exposed. They are darker and greyish in color, live in fresher water sources, and are typically less aggressive and dangerous than crocodiles. 

Crocodiles are considered apex predators in every environment they are found in. They are massive killing machines with high aggression and huge bite forces. The largest and most aggressive crocodile in the world is the Saltwater Crocodile (Crocodylus porosus), native to the seas of Australia. They can grow 11-20 feet long, the largest reptile in the world. They weigh up to 2,400 pounds, can swim up to 18 miles per hour, and are capable of living up to 70 years. They are considered highly aggressive, especially towards humans, and wield a bite force of 16,460 newtons, or 3,700 psi, giving them the title of having the strongest bite force in the animal kingdom. 

Alligators are also highly aggressive and dangerous, but can barely compare to crocodiles. The largest alligator in the world is the American Alligator (Alligator mississippiensis), the largest of two alligator species worldwide (the second being the Chinese Alligator). They weigh up to 500 pounds, reach 15 feet in length, and live up to 50 years in the wild. They are also considered highly aggressive and dangerous, and wield a bit force of 2,980 psi. 

If we put the two largest species of alligators and crocodiles in a fight, there would be no competition and not much of a fight. The immense size of the Saltwater Crocodile and its powerful bite would quickly end the American Alligator. The champion of the reptile world can be none other than the Saltwater Crocodile.