Details for Black Caiman

• Black Caiman

  The Black Caiman (Melanosuchus niger) is a large, predatory crocodilian native to the Amazon basin in South America. It is the largest living member of the alligator family, with adults commonly reaching 4-5 meters (13-16 feet) in length and exceptionally up to 6 meters (20 feet). As its name suggests, it has a dark, almost black coloration, offering excellent camouflage in nocturnal hunts. Black caimans are apex predators in their aquatic habitats, feeding on fish, capybaras, deer, and other large mammals and birds. They play a crucial role in regulating fish populations and maintaining the health of wetland ecosystems.

  

  Habitat: The Black Caiman lives in Brazil, Peru, Venezuela, Colombia, Bolivia, Ecuador, Guyana, Suriname.