Black caiman
Melanosuchus niger
ok. 4 mAdult male
total length
total length
wzdłuż osi ciała · od pyska do końca ogonaMeasurement: side
- Mass
- zwykle kilkaset kgDuże dorosłe samce
Black caiman — size comparison
The black caiman is a large member of the alligator family associated with the Amazon Basin. It inhabits rivers, lakes, flooded forests and backwaters in tropic
Silhouette comparison
Length
wzdłuż osi ciała · od pyska do końca ogonaReference values · details in the profiles
Total lengthScale in m
01234
approx. 4 m
The scale compares the named dimensions. View direction and measurement points are given for each animal.
Black caiman — size comparison — facts and sources
The black caiman is a large member of the alligator family associated with the Amazon Basin. It inhabits rivers, lakes, flooded forests and backwaters in tropical South America. Dark colouring and a low, armoured outline help conceal it near the surface.
It hunts in water and along banks, often at night. Young take invertebrates and small vertebrates, while larger individuals eat fish, birds and other substantial prey. High-set eyes and nostrils permit observation while the body is submerged. A strong tail provides propulsion, and the water offers cover for ambush.
Seasonal water levels govern access to feeding areas and connections between water bodies. Females build nests on land and remain nearby. Sheltered banks are important for young caimans, which have many natural enemies. Adults are major predators within Amazonian river ecosystems.