Answer and Explanation:
Alligators and crocodiles are ectothermic animals and that is the main reason for them to look for the aquatic environment to spend most of their time. This is because these animals do not have internal thermoregulation mechanisms and are cold-blooded animals. This lack of thermoregulation makes them directly dependent on the sun and water to maintain a constant body temperature. They also need water to decrease heart rate depending on the need. When necessary, they enter the cold water that constricts the peripheral circulation vessels and maintains a reduced oxygen supply, using less body energy.
Alligators and crocodils feed mainly on fish and mollusks and for this reason, the aquatic environment is ideal for them. In this environment they are able to spend many hours hidden from predators, which makes them use this environment to take refuge.