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The Nonindigenous Occurrences section of the NAS species profiles has a new structure. The section is now dynamically updated from the NAS database to ensure that it contains the most current and accurate information. Occurrences are summarized in Table 1, alphabetically by state, with years of earliest and most recent observations, and the tally and names of drainages where the species was observed. The table contains hyperlinks to collections tables of specimens based on the states, years, and drainages selected. References to specimens that were not obtained through sighting reports and personal communications are found through the hyperlink in the Table 1 caption or through the individual specimens linked in the collections tables.




Paleosuchus trigonatus
Paleosuchus trigonatus
(Schneider's Smooth-fronted Caiman)
Reptiles-Crocodilians
Exotic

Copyright Info
Paleosuchus trigonatus Schneider, 1801

Common name: Schneider's Smooth-fronted Caiman

Taxonomy: available through www.itis.govITIS logo

Native Range: Paleosuchus trigonatus is found in a region of the Amazon Basin including parts of Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Peru, Suriname, and Venezuela (Magnusson and Campos, 2010).

Hydrologic Unit Codes (HUCs) Explained
Interactive maps: Point Distribution Maps

Nonindigenous Occurrences:

Table 1. States with nonindigenous occurrences, the earliest and latest observations in each state, and the tally and names of HUCs with observations†. Names and dates are hyperlinked to their relevant specimen records. The list of references for all nonindigenous occurrences of Paleosuchus trigonatus are found here.

StateFirst ObservedLast ObservedTotal HUCs with observations†HUCs with observations†
FL199919991Southern Florida

Table last updated 4/18/2024

† Populations may not be currently present.


Means of Introduction: Pet escape.

Status: Failed in Florida.

Impact of Introduction: The impacts of this species are currently unknown, as no studies have been done to determine how it has affected ecosystems in the invaded range. The absence of data does not equate to lack of effects. It does, however, mean that research is required to evaluate effects before conclusions can be made.

References: (click for full references)

Krysko, K.L., J.P. Burgess, M.R. Rochford, C.R. Gillette, D. Cueva, K.M. Enge, L.A. Somma, J.L. Stabile, D.C. Smith, J.A. Wasilewski, G.N. Kieckhefer, III, M.C. Granatosky, and S.V. Nielsen. 2011. Verified non-indigenous amphibians and reptiles in Florida from 1863 through 2010: Outlining the invasion process and identifying invasion pathways and stages. Zootaxa 3028:1-64.

Magnusson, W.E., and Z. Campos. 2010. Schneider's Smooth-fronted Caiman Paleosuchus trigonatus. Pp 43-45 in Crocodiles. Status Survey and Conservation Action Plan. Third Ediction, S.C. Manolis, and C. Stevenson (eds.). Crocodile Specialist Group: Darwin.

Author: Powell, R.S.

Revision Date: 4/16/2019

Citation Information:
Powell, R.S., 2024, Paleosuchus trigonatus Schneider, 1801: U.S. Geological Survey, Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Database, Gainesville, FL, https://nas.er.usgs.gov/queries/FactSheet.aspx?SpeciesID=2870, Revision Date: 4/16/2019, Access Date: 4/19/2024

This information is preliminary or provisional and is subject to revision. It is being provided to meet the need for timely best science. The information has not received final approval by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and is provided on the condition that neither the USGS nor the U.S. Government shall be held liable for any damages resulting from the authorized or unauthorized use of the information.

Disclaimer:

The data represented on this site vary in accuracy, scale, completeness, extent of coverage and origin. It is the user's responsibility to use these data consistent with their intended purpose and within stated limitations. We highly recommend reviewing metadata files prior to interpreting these data.

Citation information: U.S. Geological Survey. [2024]. Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Database. Gainesville, Florida. Accessed [4/19/2024].

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