Which crocodilian has the strongest bite force?

The saltwater crocodile has the strongest measured bite force of any crocodilian. In a comparative study of all 23 living crocodilian species, Crocodylus porosus produced the highest representative bite force, reflecting its great size and powerful jaw-closing muscles.

Saltwater crocodiles inhabit coastal waters, estuaries, rivers, and wetlands from northern Australia through parts of Southeast Asia and the eastern Indian region. Despite their name, they are comfortable in freshwater as well as marine environments and can travel considerable distances through the sea.

A 2012 study measured a saltwater crocodile’s bite at roughly 16,000 newtons, or about 3,700 pounds-force, in a laboratory setting. The exact figure varies with the animal’s size, the position of the bite, and the measuring equipment. Nile crocodiles and American alligators also have extraordinarily powerful bites, which is why they are common answers in informal trivia.

Crocodilian jaws are built mainly to close with force. Their muscles for opening the mouth are comparatively weak, although the animals’ body strength and thrashing make them extremely dangerous once prey is seized.