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Science & Nature • Reptile

False gharial

The false gharial (*Tomistoma schlegelii*) is a large freshwater crocodilian native to Southeast Asia.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The false gharial (Tomistoma schlegelii) is a large freshwater crocodilian native to Southeast Asia. It is known for its long, narrow snout and is sometimes called the Malayan gharial or Sunda gharial. It is classified in the family Gavialidae and is considered an endangered species by the IUCN.

Taxonomy and naming

The false gharial is Tomistoma schlegelii and is placed in the crocodilian family Gavialidae. Its common names reflect its resemblance to the gharial, another long-snouted crocodilian.

Distribution and habitat

The species occurs in Sumatra, Java, Borneo, and Peninsular Malaysia. It inhabits freshwater environments including swamps, peat swamps, swamp forests, lakes, rivers, and blackwater streams.

Description

The false gharial is a large crocodilian with a long, slender snout and a fish-eating adaptation. Sources describe it as one of the more distinctive crocodilians of Southeast Asia.

Conservation

The species is considered endangered by the IUCN, with habitat loss and other pressures contributing to its decline. Some sources note uncertainty and variation in reported population estimates.

Key facts

  • A freshwater crocodilian native to islands and mainland areas of Southeast Asia.
  • Easily recognized by its long snout, which resembles that of the gharial.
  • Classified in the family Gavialidae, one of only two living species in that family.
  • Lives in swamp forests, peat swamps, rivers, lakes, and related freshwater habitats.
  • Listed as Endangered by the IUCN.

Frequently asked questions

What is a false gharial?
A false gharial is a large freshwater crocodilian from Southeast Asia, scientifically named Tomistoma schlegelii.
Why is it called a false gharial?
It is called “false” gharial because it resembles the gharial in having a long, narrow snout, but it is a different species.
Where does the false gharial live?
It lives in freshwater habitats in Sumatra, Java, Borneo, and Peninsular Malaysia.
What is its conservation status?
The false gharial is listed as Endangered by the IUCN.
What family does it belong to?
It belongs to the family Gavialidae, which includes only two living species.
Is the false gharial the same as the gharial?
No. It is a separate species that only looks similar to the gharial because of its long, narrow snout.

References

  1. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/animal/false-gharial
    Supports: Scientific name, family, habitat range, distinctive snout, and endangered status.
  2. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/False_gharial
    Supports: Common names, native range, habitat, and conservation status estimates.
  3. Restorasi Ekosistem Riau — https://www.rekoforest.org/field-stories/wildlife-of-rer-false-gharial/
    Supports: Common names, range, and conservation status reference.
  4. Animal Diversity Web — https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Tomistoma_schlegelii/
    Supports: Habitat types and range details.
  5. Audubon Nature Institute — https://audubonnatureinstitute.org/sunda-gharial
    Supports: Alternative common name, size, and general distribution.