What is the difference between Alligator and Crocodile?

The main difference between alligators and crocodiles is that they belong to different scientific families. They also differ in colors. Crocodiles are black and gray, while alligators are brown. The shape of their noses also has subtle differences as well. Alligators have rounded noses, which give the impression of the letter U, while crocodiles have long triangular noses, which give the impression of alphabet V.

Alligators round noses helps to make it easier for them to chew their food. Crocodiles possess salt glands on their tongue, which allows them to digest their food and manage secretions. Salt glands are not present on the alligator's tongue.

If you ever go to a swamp, you are going to want to watch out for alligators or crocodiles. However, if you encounter one, you probably won’t care whether it is an alligator or a crocodile. However, there are many differences. A crocodile’s snout is pointier than the alligator’s snout which is more rounded. Alligators are located in the United States as well as China. Crocodiles are found everywhere.

Also, water is an important part of determining if an alligator or crocodile lives there. Alligators live in freshwater sources of water whereas crocodiles can live in salty water. Alligators are slightly smaller than the crocodile. However, it might be difficult for you to determine if you see an alligator or crocodile unless you can compare it to the other one.