Yacare caiman

Caiman yacare
Family Alligatoridae
Genus Caiman
IUCN category (World) LC
Caiman yacare Caiman yacare

Introduction

Descriptor : Daudin, 1802

Caiman yacare, commonly known as Yacare caiman, is a little fresh water reptile from the Amérique du Sud.

Who is it?

Morphology

  • Size
    1.5 - 2.7 cm
  • Mimicry
    mud
  • Size
    1.5 - 2.7 cm
  • Mimicry
    mud

How to recognize This reptile ?

The Yacare caiman measures between 1.5 and 2.7 cm. Given its small size, this species is commonly referred to as a "dwarf" animal. This reptile is unicolore with a predominantly noir and gris body.

Behaviour & Life cycle

  • Sociability
    living in a group or alone
  • Way of living
    diurnal
  • Venomous
    No
  • Diet
    predator

The Yacare caiman hunts in the stalk and is one of the predators of its biotope. Opportunistic, it does not hesitate to attack any smaller animal nearby.

The Yacare caiman is a reptile living in a group or alone naturally found Terre. This species is carnivorous . Measuring only a few centimeters, this small species tends to be discreet and hide in the presence of larger neighbors.

This species is territorial and does not appreciate the presence of intruders nearby, especially animals with similar behavior. However, the Yacare caiman is generally peaceful with non-territorial animals that cannot be potential prey.

Reproduction

  • Reproduction
    ovipare
  • Clutch size
    0 - 0 eggs

The Yacare caiman is a reptile ovipare.

Risks for humans

  • Venomous
    No
  • Bite
    Yes

This species can attack if it feels threatened. It is important to be particularly vigilant especially during dives or fishing sessions.

Origin and distribution

Natural range
Invasive range
Mixed / unknown area

: LC

What is its habitat?

Natural environment characteristics

  • Temperature
    22 - 30 °C
  • Flow
    Medium and Slow

Biotope presentation

The acidification of water comes from the decomposition of plants. This phenomenon changes the color of the water, which tends to turn brown. In some areas particularly rich in organic matter, the water is so dark that it is called "black water".

The Yacare caiman is most often found at a depth between 0m and 3m. However, it is not impossible to find this species at other depths. This animal evolves in areas characterized by a strong presence of vegetation (aquatic and marsh plants, decaying organic matter, roots...).

The soil is generally composed of  sand and of vase.

Species of the same biotope

To go further

Species of the same family

Espèces du même genre

To read on the web

Sources & Contributions

Participation & Validation

The Fishipedia team and specialist contributors are committed to providing high-quality content. However, although the information comes from scientific sources or testimonials from specialists, the cards may contain inaccuracies.

Benoit Chartrer

Benoit Chartrer

Translation

Translation done with the valuable contribution of our translators, who make this information available to a wider audience. We sincerely thank them for their commitment.

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