Crocodilia

/ˌkrɑːkəˈdɪliə/ noun

Definition

A taxonomic order containing crocodiles, alligators, caimans, and gharials—large reptiles adapted for life in water.

Etymology

From Greek 'krokodilos' (crocodile) + Latin scientific naming conventions that pluralize or create group names with '-ia,' following Linnaean taxonomy system developed in the 18th century.

Kelly Says

Crocodilia is one of the oldest reptile groups still alive today—they've barely changed in 200 million years because they're so perfectly designed as apex predators that evolution couldn't improve them much!

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