The narial excrescence and pterygoid bulla of the gharial, <i>Gavialis gangeticus</i> (Crocodilia)

Abstract

Observations on the narial excrescence of the gharial are reviewed, with special reference to the size and sex of animals in which it occurs. Its morphology in two adult specimens is described; its functional anatomy and mode of development are reconstructed and its probable functions are discussed. Some observations on the pterygoid bulla are also made.