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The black caiman is the largest crocodile species in the freshwater of the Amazon. Currently reaching up to twenty feet in length, their size will decrease in the future due to less prey. Their dark appearance which achieves maximum camouflage at night and soaks up the sun's heat will become lighter as the earth becomes warmer causing shorter nights. With less water, their legs will lengthen thereby maximizing land maneuverability. Though apex predators, the eggs and juveniles are vulnerable. To increase the eggs survival rate the males could stay with the mothers to protect the young. Upon adulthood a large Caiman’s main predator becomes human poaching for their meat and attractive leather as well as deforestation. The tapetum lucidum controls their night vision, by reflecting dim light. Unfortunately, it’s a reliable marker for poachers. They may sacrifice some of their nocturnal vision to reduce the reflection.