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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.

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Common name: Dwarf Caiman

Synonyms and Other Names: Cuvier's Dwarf Caiman, Cuvier's Smooth-fronted Caiman, Musky Caiman, Wedge-head Caiman, Jacaré pagua (Portuguese)

Taxonomy: available through www.itis.gov

Native Range: Cuvier's Dwarf Caiman is native to South America. It is most commonly found in Brazil, French Guiana, Surinam, Guyana, and Venezuela (Grenard, 1991).

Alaska	Hawaii	Puerto Rico & Virgin Islands	Guam Saipan

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

Ecology: This species can be found near rivers and inundated savanna areas. It has been known to occupy streams of varying sizes, where it is spotted resting near the shorelines. This species is also terrestrial, and can be seen on piles of small rocks and, river banks, and near decaying trees. P. palpebrosus is known to dwell in burrows up to 1.5-3.5 meters long. This species prefers colder temperatures and can survive as low as 6 °C (Stevenson, 1999).

Paleosuchus palpebrosus primarily feeds on fishes as an adult, although they also take insects, frogs, crustaceans, and rodents. There is little data available on the breeding habits of this species. In Colombia, they nest between August and November during the rainy season; however, it appears that nesting occurs in the dry season in Brazil. Their mound-like nests have been found on floating vegetation, but most often are on the forest floor. The female lays between 13 and 15 eggs. Incubation is 90–92 days long (Stevenson, 1999).

Means of Introduction: Pet trade.

Status: Presumed to have failed.

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)

Grenard, S. 1991. Handbook of Alligators and Crocodiles. Krieger Publishing Company, Malabar, Florida. 210 pp.

Krysko, K.L. and 12 others. 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.

Stevenson, C. 1999. The Paleosuchus Page. Available from: http://crocodilian.com/paleosuchus/. Accessed 3/5/2013.

 

Author: Fuller, P.

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.