A small town Mexican mayor married his alligator bride in a colourful ceremony as traditional music rang out and revellers danced.

San Pedro Huamelula Mayor Victor Hugo Sosa then kissed the small alligator, whose mouth had been tied shut to avoid unwanted biting.

The ritual marriage likely dates back centuries to pre-Hispanic times among Oaxaca state's indigenous communities, like a prayer asking for nature's bounty.

"We ask nature for enough rain, for enough food, that we have fish in the river," said Sosa, mayor of the small fishing village.

Oaxaca, located in Mexico's poor south, is arguably the country's richest in indigenous culture and home to many groups that have maintained their languages and traditions.

The age-old ritual involves dressing the alligator in a white wedding dress.