Why do crocodiles cry tears?
Show answer & explanation
Answer: Lubricating eyes, not emotion
Lubricating eyes, not emotion ✓ — Correct! Eye lubrication! 'Crocodile tears' are physiological, not emotional. Function: (1) Eye protection—lubricates eyes (especially out of water). (2) Salt excretion—special glands remove excess salt. Glands near eyes activate during feeding—muscles massage glands, tears flow. NOT sadness/remorse! Phrase 'crocodile tears' (insincere emotion) comes from myth. All vertebrates produce eye moisture. Crocodiles spend time on land—need lubrication. Alligators similar. No evidence of emotional crying in reptiles!
Tears digest food faster — Wrong. Tears don't aid digestion. They lubricate eyes and excrete salt—glands near eyes activated during feeding by muscle movement.
Crying attracts more prey — Wrong. Tears don't attract prey. Eye lubrication and salt excretion are physiological functions, not hunting strategies.
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