Part 4/5:
An interesting feature of male gharials is the large, fleshy ball located at the end of their snouts. This structure resembles a decorative muzzle accessory and is not a tool for hunting, which might initially be expected of such a prominent feature. Instead, it serves a crucial role in courtship.
In the animal kingdom, traits that do not aid in survival, yet enhance attractiveness, are often a signal of genetic fitness. The size of this fleshy ball can significantly influence mating success, as females generally prefer larger specimens. Thus, this unusual adaptation has substantial implications for reproductive strategies among gharials.