As their name implies, black caiman are quite dark colored. They inhabit the Amazon river of South America and its tributaries, along with nearby swamps, lakes, and ponds. This species is more terrestrial than many crocodilians, often hunting on land at night.
The large size of this caiman makes it dangerous to humans and their livestock. Further, its skin makes nice shiny black leather, although of inferior quality to that of the true crocodiles. As a result, this species is persecuted where it comes into contact with man.
Black caimans get up to Huge size, although most individuals are smaller. Unconfirmed reports suggest this species may reach Immense size on rare occasions. The belly scales of this species are reinforced by bone, giving it better armor underneath.