Translation guide
The animal alligator. In Japanese, the word ワニ (wani) covers both alligators and crocodiles, but there are specific terms to distinguish them when needed.
Referring to an alligator as an animal, without needing to distinguish from a crocodile.
When you need to specify that it's an alligator, not a crocodile.
ワニ is the general term for crocodilians. アリゲーター specifically means alligator, and クロコダイル specifically means crocodile. In casual conversation, ワニ is sufficient, but in scientific or educational contexts, the specific terms are used.
Crocodilians include alligators and crocodiles.
I saw an alligator in Florida.
Loanword from English, specifically meaning alligator. Used when you need to be clear it's not a crocodile, or in scientific contexts.
That zoo has an alligator.
Literally 'American crocodile/alligator', but commonly used to refer to the American alligator. This is a natural way to specify the species.
The American alligator has a broader snout than the crocodile.
Specifically the Mississippi alligator, the most well-known species. Used in more precise contexts.
The Mississippi alligator is not an endangered species.