A caiman (/ ˈ k eɪ m ə n / (also spelled cayman [3]) from Taíno kaiman [4] [additional citation(s) needed]) is an alligatorid belonging to the subfamily Caimaninae, one of two primary lineages within the Alligatoridae family, the other being alligators.

Apr 19, 2025 · caiman, any of several species of Central and South American reptiles that are related to alligators and are usually placed with them in the family Alligatoridae. Caimans, like all other members of the order Crocodylia (or Crocodilia), are amphibious carnivores.

Frequently found in Mexico and parts of South America, caimans navigate through marshes, swamps, rivers, and lakes. Their tough skin and powerful jaws protect them from the majority of other animals that share these habitats. There are few methods to distinguish caimans from their closest relatives, the alligators.

Caiman are aquatic reptiles that live in rivers, marshes, swamps, lakes, and mangroves. They usually prefer still or slowly-moving freshwater habitats, but some species will tolerate faster, brackish. or even saltwater habitats. Wild caimans are …

May 27, 2024 · Caimans are animals that have wide, slightly flattened bodies and long vertically flattened, muscular tail that propels them through the water with immense power.

Aug 12, 2020 · A caiman, or cayman, is any of several species of reptiles that belong to the family Alligatoridae. Six species of these reptiles belong to one of three genera; Caiman, Melanosuchus, and Paleosuchus. Caimans can be found in rivers, lakes, and swampland across Central and South America.

Sep 7, 2015 · Like all crocodilians, caimans are long, squat creatures, with big jaws, long tails and short legs. They have thick, scaled skin, and their eyes and noses are located on the tops of their heads. This enables them to see and breathe while the rest of their bodies are underwater.

The black caiman, Melanosuchus niger, is the largest member of the family Alligatoridae. Cuvier's dwarf caiman, Paleosuchus palpebrosus, is the smallest member of the order Crocodylia. The common caiman, Caiman crocodilus, is the most numerous of all crocodilians.

Jul 14, 2023 · What is a caiman? A caiman is a reptile belonging to the Alligatoridae family. They are smaller than alligators and crocodiles, with streamlined bodies and a distinct appearance. How big do caimans get? The size of caimans varies depending on the species. They can range from 4 to 13 feet (1.2 to 4 meters) in length when fully grown.

A caiman is a medium to large carnivorous reptile belonging to the subfamily of Caimaninae, and the family of Alligatoridae, the same family that alligators come from. Usually of a smaller size than crocodiles and alligators, it is included in the Crocodilian order along with the latter two.