The resurgence of the saltwater crocodile population in the Northern Territory has led to an extraordinary increase in their predatory habits, consuming nine times more prey over 50 years. Research highlights a significant change in their diet from mostly aquatic prey to predominantly land animals. Their exponential growth from fewer than 3,000 to above 100,000 individuals has significant ecological implications, as they contribute vital nutrients to the waterways through their excrement. The study emphasizes the impact of their increased biomass and density on the ecological balance in the Top End.
Crocodiles in the Northern Territory are now consuming about nine times more prey than 50 years ago, significantly impacting the ecosystem and nutrient cycling.
Since a hunting ban was introduced in 1971, the Northern Territory's crocodile population has surged from under 3,000 to over 100,000, showcasing their remarkable recovery.
Research indicates that crocodiles are now eating around 180kg of prey per square kilometre of wetland compared to less than 20kg in 1979, shifting from aquatic to terrestrial prey.
The nutrients excreted by crocodiles into waterways have multiplied significantly, with nitrogen and phosphorus increasing 186-fold and 56-fold, respectively, enhancing the aquatic ecosystem.
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