Adult Size: Grows to about 6.5 feet (2 meters).

Headshape: The jaws are much wider and thicker than the other true caiman species, giving it the common name Broad-snouted Caiman. The bony ridge between the eyes is prominent, however the shorter snout will distinguish it from C. crocodilus and C. yacare.

Appearance: Usually has muted or no blotches on the lower jaw.

Nuchal Clusters: 4 x 2 pattern with robust post-occipital scutes.

Flanks: 3-4 rows of very large, heavily keeled scutes.

STATUS: Least Concern

*Compare with Melanosuchus niger