Story perspectives

Ancient Seychelles Crocodiles: Masters of Ocean Travel

3/1/2026

Summary

Story summary

Genetic research confirms Seychelles crocodiles were saltwater crocodiles capable of long-distance ocean travel, with a historic range exceeding 12,000 kilometers.
Historical records indicate these crocodiles were abundant in the Seychelles until human settlement in 1770, after which they went extinct within five decades.
A study comparing DNA from modern saltwater crocodiles and museum specimens shows the Seychelles population belongs to the westernmost group of the species and highlights marine adaptations.

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Story summary

Genetic research confirms Seychelles crocodiles were saltwater crocodiles capable of long-distance ocean travel, with a historic range exceeding 12,000 kilometers.
Historical records indicate these crocodiles were abundant in the Seychelles until human settlement in 1770, after which they went extinct within five decades.
A study comparing DNA from modern saltwater crocodiles and museum specimens shows the Seychelles population belongs to the westernmost group of the species and highlights marine adaptations.