Crocodiles: The Apex Predators with the Most Powerful Bite Force

Lurking in waters around the world, the crocodile is a semi-aquatic reptile and an apex predator with a fearsome reputation. Crocodiles are the largest reptiles in the world and have the strongest bite force of any living animal. But just how strong is a crocodile’s bite? Let’s dive in!

Crocodile: Overview

Though crocodiles have roamed the Earth for over 235 million years, modern crocodiles emerged around 55 million years ago. While some prehistoric crocodiles were highly specialized at running on land, swimming, and eating plants, modern crocodilians have largely settled into their current semi-aquatic, predatory lifestyle.

Crocodiles are large reptiles with a long, powerful tail, short legs, and a snout filled with many sharp teeth. They have tough, scaly skin and are known for their ability to position their eyes, ears, and nostrils above the water surface while the rest of their body remains submerged. This adaptation allows them to ambush prey with incredible stealth.

There are 14 recognized species of true crocodiles in the family Crocodylidae as of 2025. The saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus) and the Nile crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus) are among the largest, with saltwater crocodiles potentially reaching over 20 feet in length and weighing over 2,200 pounds.

The Crocodile with The Strongest Bite Force

The saltwater crocodile has the greatest bite force of all animals, measuring 3,700 psi. This measurement was recorded by Dr. Gregory Erickson, a professor at Florida State University, who studied the bite forces of various crocodile species. The recorded bite force, from a 17-foot saltwater crocodile, was measured using a device attached to the end of a stick. Larger saltwater crocodiles may be able to produce an even stronger bite.

Dr. Erickson discovered that saltwater crocodiles have the largest bite force. He also analyzed other species and found that bite force is strongly correlated with body size. All species of crocodiles are designed to have a deadly bite, but smaller crocs have a weaker bite.

Snout size and body structure affect bite force less than the crocodile’s overall weight and size. While some sources claim that the Nile crocodile has a comparable bite force, the saltwater crocodile holds the record for the strongest measured bite force in the animal kingdom.

Why Crocodiles Have Such A Powerful Bite Force

The secret to the crocodile’s powerful bite is found in its jaws. Crocodiles have a unique jaw anatomy that includes a second jaw joint, which helps distribute the tremendous force of their bite. The second joint functions like a brace, preventing the jaw from twisting or dislocating during a powerful bite.

Crocodiles use their strong bite to capture and consume prey. As semi-aquatic creatures, crocodiles survive on aquatic animals, though larger species also prey on land animals. As carnivores, they eat fish, large mammals, and carrion.

Crocodiles are apex predators and elite hunters. They will drag prey into the water to drown it. When crocodiles capture prey, they will perform a spinning maneuver to dismember it. This maneuver is called the death roll.