Dwarf crocodiles (Osteolaemus tetraspis) in Gabon were discovered by scientists in the Abanda cave system. This species' skin has turned orange from swimming in guano, but scientists still don't know how long they've been here.. Moreover, scientists believe that cave dwarf crocodiles are likely to transform into a completely new species, writes Live Science.

Unusual crocodiles were first discovered and studied by scientists back in 2010, and in a 2016 study, the team compared them with their forest-dwelling relatives - the results showed differences between them. Scientists note that it is still unknown how many crocodiles live in these caves and how long ago they switched to an underground lifestyle. However, scientists suggest that the animals may have been here for thousands of years; moreover, today crocodiles may also be in the process of evolving into a new species.

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This species is known to live deep inside one of the cave systems of Gabon and is distinguished by its amazing orange skin color. Dwarf crocodiles live in complete darkness, feed on bats and swim in liquid guano - bat excrement.

During observations of this species, scientists discovered that its representatives feed on crickets and bats. Interestingly, in general, members of this species seem to be in better condition than those living in the forest. The team believes their prosperity is likely due to the abundance of available prey and lack of predators.

It is believed that cave crocodiles lay eggs at the entrance to caves, and then the young individuals descend into the darkness. When crocodiles reach adulthood, scientists believe they no longer leave the caves.

According to the lead author of the 2018 study, Florida International University conservation biologist Matthew Shirley, crocodiles' unusual orange skin is likely the result of them swimming in bat guano.. Over time, this exposure appears to cause chemical bleaching of crocodiles' skin.

Genetic analysis of the animals, which has not been published, suggests that cave dwarf crocodiles may also likely be mutating right now.

According to the study's co-author, the French Institute for Development Studies Richard Auslisley, the crocodiles in the Abanda caves today stand out as an isolated genetic group: one group of parental DNA variants found in cave crocodiles was completely absent in forest crocodiles.

The study authors say this genetic change is evidence that cave crocodiles are evolving into a new species.. Unfortunately, scientists cannot accurately predict when this transformation will end..

Focus previously wrote that scientists discovered the remains of a unique crocodile.