Common Caiman Research Paper

628 Words2 Pages

Kyle Best
11-16-2015
Professor Crerar
Biology 377
The Common Caiman: A Common Invader
The common caiman (Caiman Crocodilus), also known as a spotted Caiman, is a moderately sized reptile that resembles a crocodile or alligator, but with an average length of 1.1 -1.8 meters they are typically smaller than their more noted counterparts. Being a freshwater crocodilian this species lives in the marshy areas that connect to moderate sized tributaries, giving them both a feeding and breeding ground as well as, the ability to easily move from marsh to marsh in search of food and mates. Native to an area starting in northern South America and ranging to northern Central America, this reptile has begun moving into territories further and further north. This crocodilian can be identified by a curved bony ridge near the front of the snout and banding of darker color over the species’ back, which its American counterparts lack. As of now the Caiman is too susceptible to cold weather to continue moving north into central North America, and has been stunted in northern Florida due to freezing that drives the …show more content…

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