SYDNEY – A 5.48m-long Australian crocodile that held the world record as the largest crocodile in captivity has died, a wildlife sanctuary said on Nov 2. It was thought to be more than 110 years old.

       Cassius, weighing in at about one tonne, or 907kg, had been in declining health since Oct 15, Marineland Melanesia Crocodile Habitat said on Facebook.

       “He was very old and believed to be living beyond the years of a wild croc,” according to a post by the organisation, which is based on Green Island near the Queensland tourist town of Cairns.

       “Cassius will be deeply missed, but our love and memories of him will remain in our hearts forever.”

       The group’s website said the reptile had lived at the sanctuary since 1987 after being transported from the neighbouring Northern Territory, where crocodiles are a key part of the region’s tourist industry.

       Cassius, a saltwater crocodile, held the Guinness World Records title as the world’s largest crocodile in captivity.

       He took the title after the 2013 death of Philippine crocodile Lolong, which measured 6.17m long, according to Guinness. REUTERS

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