Cassius, the world’s largest saltwater crocodile in captivity, has died.
The 5.48 metre (18ft) Australian crocodile, who lived on Green Island in the Great Barrier Reef, was thought to be more than 110 years old.
Cassius was titled the world’s largest crocodile in captivity in 2011 by the Guinness World Records.
Marineland Melanesia Crocodile Habitat announced “beloved mate” Cassius’ death on Saturday.
“It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of our beloved mate Cassius,” it said.
“He was more than just a Crocodile he was a cherished member of our family and brought joy and companionship to his best mate George for over 37 years.”
It said that Cassius’s condition declined since the 15th of October.
The crocodile weighed more than one ton and was believed to be between 30 and 80 years old when he was held captive in the 1980s.
“He was very old and believed to be living beyond the years of a wild Croc,” it added.
“Cassius will be deeply missed, but our love and memories of him will remain in our hearts forever.”
Toody Scott, who was personally responsible for Cassius’s care, described him as a “sweetheart”.
“He had these big eyes that you’d look into and you could look into his soul,” he told AAP.
In an interview in 2011 to Guinness World Records website he said the crocodile had gentle nature.
“His eyes are so big and dreamy you could get lost in them forever,” he said.
