Alligators typically have between 74 and 80 sharp, conical teeth divided between their two jaws, and alligators continually replace their teeth throughout their lives. The teeth are made for piercing and holding prey, and the 2000 pound bite force of alligators is among the greatest in the animal kingdom. Prey is either crushed or held underwater until drowned. Alligators do not chew their food, and large prey must be broken into manageable pieces. This is accomplished either by bashing the food against the water or bank, or by violently rolling their bodies to twist pieces away from the carcass.
Photo from Avery Island, Louisiana.
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Alligator Teeth (Alligator mississippiensis)
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