Study Finds Light Influences Gharial Basking Behavior

A study of captive Gangetic gharials at the Deori EcoCentre in Madhya Pradesh reveals that light acts as a stronger cue for morning basking than temperature. Researchers observed 382 gharials, noting that relying on light rather than heat to initiate basking can lead to suboptimal site selection or hypothermia if artificial light disrupts natural cues.

Lead author Megha Khanduri warned that light pollution may cause these reptiles to emerge from the water when temperatures are insufficient. Furthermore, if hatchlings respond to light differently than adults, they risk premature exposure to terrestrial predators during early hours, potentially threatening their survival.

Editor's note: Accurate summary of the research findings and potential risks identified in the study.