INTRODUCTION

The Spectacled Caiman (Caiman crocodilus) is one of the most widely distributed crocodilian species in Central and South America. It has a classic crocodilian appearance but remains smaller than other members of the Alligatoridae family, including the Black Caiman. Common names include White Caiman, Common Caiman, Stifle Caiman, Baba and Tinga.

This species is found across a large geographical range including Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, French Guiana, Guyana, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, Suriname, Tobago, Trinidad and Venezuela, with introduced populations in Cuba, Puerto Rico and parts of the United States. Spectacled Caimans are named after the bony ridge between the orbits, which gives the impression of a pair of spectacles.

Adults measure around 2.1m in length, with males sometimes reaching 2.5m and females remaining smaller at approximately 1.4m. Under optimal captive conditions juveniles may reach 2m in as little as three years. Adult colouration tends to be olive green, whereas juveniles show more pronounced dark and yellow banding on the body and tail. Like many reptile species, they are capable of metachrosis, altering the distribution of melanin to appear darker or lighter. Their dentition includes 72–78 teeth distributed across the upper and lower jaws.

Historically, several subspecies were recognised, although Caiman yacare is now classified as its own species. Spectacled Caimans are heavily exploited for the leather trade, with an estimated one to two million skins exported annually. A decline in their numbers impacts aquatic ecosystems through increased piranha populations and altered nutrient cycling.

HUSBANDRY

VIVARIUM

These animals require extremely large enclosures and should only be kept by experienced, licensed keepers or specialist facilities. Recommended minimum dimensions are often cited as twice the animal’s total body length in width and three times in length, with both land and water areas provided. For an adult pair this may equate to approximately 12m² of land and 15m² of water. A secure, escape-proof enclosure with safe keeper access is essential. A large land area must be provided for basking.

LIGHTING

Spectacled Caimans require full-spectrum lighting, including UV-A for behavioural and visual cues, and UV-B for calcium metabolism through vitamin D3 synthesis. A photoperiod of 12–14 hours is suitable for this species. High-output UV systems are recommended, positioned appropriately to avoid overheating while still providing adequate exposure.

TEMPERATURE AND HUMIDITY

The ambient environmental temperature should range between 24–30°C with a basking area of approximately 35°C. Water temperature should be maintained between 24–27°C. Relative humidity should be kept between 60–80%. Ventilation is essential to prevent excessive humidity accumulation and respiratory compromise. As with all reptiles, accurate thermometers and hygrometers are strongly recommended.

DIET, SUPPLEMENTATION AND WATER

Spectacled Caimans are opportunistic carnivores. In the wild they feed on fish, amphibians, birds, reptiles and small mammals such as capybaras and peccaries. Cannibalism may occur during the dry season. Juveniles begin with small invertebrates before progressing to vertebrate prey as they grow.

In captivity they may be fed a diet of fish, poultry, rodents, beef or horse meat depending on availability. Feeding frequency is typically once or twice weekly for adults, although more frequent feedings are used in farming operations to promote rapid growth. Crocodilians have extremely efficient digestion due to highly acidic stomach contents and store surplus energy as fat along the tail and jaw regions, enabling survival through seasonal scarcity.

Nutritional imbalances may occur if fed inappropriate prey. Diets composed mainly of fish may result in thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency due to thiaminase, or vitamin E deficiency due to high polyunsaturated fat content. Fish should be fresh or correctly thawed and not decomposing. Goldfish should not be used as a staple. Calcium supplementation is often required when feeding pinkies or lean meat, and UV-B lighting is essential for vitamin D3 synthesis. A varied diet with appropriate vitamin and mineral supplementation is recommended.

BREEDING

In the wild the reproductive cycle follows the Amazon’s wet–dry seasonal pattern, with courtship occurring between May and August. Females lay an average of 25 eggs, with potential clutches of up to 50. Nests are constructed in sandy areas near rivers and covered with vegetation, which ferments and helps maintain a stable incubation temperature.

Caiman crocodilus exhibits temperature-dependent sex determination, with higher temperatures producing males and cooler temperatures producing females. Females guard their nests until hatching, which occurs after approximately 90 days, and provide early maternal care until the young are large enough to defend themselves. Females typically breed between 5 and 10 years of age at sizes of around 0.9–1.2m. Males mature at a larger size but a similar age due to faster growth. Social dominance influences growth rate and therefore age of sexual maturity.

PREVENTIVE CARE

Routine health screening and parasite testing are strongly advised. Caimans may harbour gastrointestinal parasites, protozoa and nematodes, which can cause clinical disease in suboptimal conditions. Good water quality, correct temperatures and balanced nutrition are critical in maintaining immune function and preventing disease. Annual veterinary checks with an experienced exotic animal veterinarian are recommended.