Re: [Re: Crocs regrowing their tails]

[archosaur@usa.net]

Well since we don't mind contributing a little to this on the list I'll add my
two cents.

Crocodylians lack the break lines seen in lacertillians that actually have
breakable and replacwable tails, so first and foremost the tail isn't meant to
break. 

Now if the tail isn't meant to break I would doubt that it was meant to be
replaced either, especially considering that the replacement would be nothing
more than a shaft of cartilage with some tendonous movement. Crocodylians are
very fond of their tails as they play a large role in aquatic movement. Much
like chameleons, prehensile tailed skinks and other reptiles that use their
tails for something other than a whip or a distraction, the tail has become
too important to simply drop and replace (something that seems to be common
only to Lepidosaurs among reptiles) and just like in those reptiles, once the
tail is gone, it's gone forever.

Now a croc with it's tail tip cut off might regrow some of it or it just might
look that way from a large replacement scab. I have seen crocs that have had
portions of their tails lopped off during territorial disputes (along with
limbs and occasionally jaws) and seen no sign of regrowth. Considering the
amount of tail that is being lopped off for this "delicacy" I'd say it would
definitely prove to be detrimental to their health.


Well the meter's out.

Archosaur J

Jurassosaurus's Reptipage: A page devoted to the study of the reptilia:

http://reptilis.webjump.com

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