Diurnal use of space by captive adult broad-snouted caiman (Caiman latirostris): Implications for pen design

Abstract

Crocodilians generally present low reproductive success in captivity. The reasons for this are still unclear, but the faulty design of reproductive facilities can be a cause of stress, injuries and social disruption. This study explored the use of space by captive adult broad-snouted caiman in order to improve pen design for farming species. Caimans showed a predominant use of the pool and its margin during daytime. Even in our small (9 x 10 m) pens, caimans used pools and their margins significantly more than areas farther removed from pools. This pattern suggests that caiman farmers should maximize pool area and perimeter in pen design.