Black caimans (melanosuchus niger) resemble crocodiles and alligators in appearance. Although the caiman’s family tree is quite complex, recent studies suggest that it is more related to alligators than crocodiles. Huge black caimans exist! They are the largest members of the caiman family and can grow to a maximum length of 17 feet. Females are slightly shorter than males and average 10 feet in length. They typically weigh around 800 lbs, but they can grow to be up to 1000 lbs! They can lay clutches of up to 60 eggs with hard shells that can weigh up to 5 oz each. Black caimans keep warm by lying in the sun and allowing the sunlight to pass through their dark scales. Even when standing, they will have their mouths open. They are able to absorb as much sunlight as possible thanks to the dark water they swim in. You shouldn’t attempt to touch a black caiman even though they aren’t the most aggressive members of the crocodile, caiman, and alligator family.