Which Was the Biggest Crocodile Ever Found in Human History?

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Written by Consensus AI
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Check out this answer from Consensus:

The largest crocodile ever found in human history includes both extinct and extant species. Deinosuchus from the Late Cretaceous period was one of the largest, reaching up to 10 meters. Among living species, the saltwater crocodile holds the record, with notable specimens like “Lolong” and “Đầu Sấu” measuring over 6 meters. Additionally, the extinct Crocodylus thorbjarnarsoni from Kenya reached lengths of up to 7.5 meters. These findings highlight the impressive size range of crocodiles throughout history.

The largest crocodile ever found in human history has been a subject of interest and debate among researchers. Various species of crocodiles, both extant and extinct, have been studied to determine their maximum sizes and the factors contributing to their gigantism.

Key Insights

  • Deinosuchus:
    • Deinosuchus, a giant crocodylian from the Late Cretaceous period, reached lengths of 8 to 10 meters and weighed between 2,500 and 5,000 kg. This species attained its gigantic size by prolonging its development rather than accelerating its growth rates.
  • Saltwater Crocodile (Crocodylus porosus):
    • The saltwater crocodile is the largest and longest crocodilian species alive today. A notable specimen named “Lolong” measured 6.17 meters in length  .
    • Another significant specimen, “Đầu Sấu,” found in Vietnam, had a skull length of 70.7 cm, suggesting a total length of 6.3-6.8 meters. This makes it one of the largest saltwater crocodiles ever reported .
  • Crocodylus thorbjarnarsoni:
    • This extinct species from the Pliocene and Pleistocene deposits in Kenya reached lengths of up to 7.5 meters. It was one of the largest predators in its environment and likely preyed on early humans 

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