Species that are considered uncertain risk need a more in-depth assessment beyond the Risk Summary to better define the species’ risk to U.S. environments.
Caiman crocodilus is native to southern Mexico, Central America and northern South America. The species was introduced into the U.S. primarily through the pet industry, and it is now established in southern Florida and Puerto Rico. C. crocodilus may have been responsible for the introduction of caiman tongueworms to Puerto Rico. These parasites could also pose a risk to native fish and crocodilians in the continental U.S. C. crocodilus is generalist in its foraging habits, which may reduce impacts to specific native prey populations. Climate matching indicated the Continental U.S. has a medium climate match. Peer-reviewed studies are needed to better characterize the impacts of this species where it has been introduced, and to provide more clarity to the conflicting opinions of past authors on the possible impacts of the species. Overall risk posed by C. crocodilus is uncertain.
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Uncertain Risk
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