Source: Wikimedia Commons
Dwarf Caiman
AdvancedPaleosuchus palpebrosus
World's smallest crocodilian. Small at max 1.5m, offering special crocodilian keeping experience for experts.
Difficulty
Advanced
Temperature
25〜32℃
Lifespan
30-40 years
Size
100-150cm
Humidity
40〜70%
Diet
Fish, Crustaceans, Meat
About
Cuvier's dwarf caiman is a small crocodilian in the alligator family from northern and central South America. It is found in Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Trinidad and Venezuela. It lives in riverine forests, flooded forests near lakes, and near fast-flowing rivers and streams. It can traverse dry land to reach temporary pools and tolerates colder water than other species of caimans. Other common names for this species include the musky caiman, the dwarf caiman, Cuvier's caiman, and the smooth-fronted caiman. It is sometimes kept in captivity as a pet and may be referred to as the wedge-head caiman by the pet trade community.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Lifespan of the Dwarf Caiman
The Dwarf Caiman lives 30-40 years.
Size of the Dwarf Caiman
The Dwarf Caiman grows to 100-150cm.
Basic Info
Origin
Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru
Lifespan
30-40 years
Size
100-150cm
Temperature
25〜32℃
Humidity
40〜70%
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Paleosuchus palpebrosus (Cuvier, 1807)
Synonyms: Champsa gibbiceps Natterer, 1840, Crocodilus palpebrosus Cuvier, 1807, Jacaretinga moschifer Spix, 1825
Authority databases: GBIF · Reptile Database
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
CITES Appendix IIIUCN LC · Least ConcernDesignated Dangerous Animal (permit/region-restricted in Japan)
Designated as a controlled animal (order Crocodilia) in Japan.
Sources: CITES Checklist (CROCODYLIA spp. Appendix II) / IUCN Red List / Ministry of the Environment Specified Animal List (Crocodylia)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Dwarf Caiman Listings
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