Spatial and Temporal Variation in Reproduction of a Generalist Crocodilian, Caiman crocodilus yacare, in a Seasonally Flooded Wetland

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0129368
• Publication Date: 2015-06-24T18:27:33Z
• Authors: Zilca Campos; Guilherme Mourão; Marcos Coutinho; William E. Magnusson; Balbina M. A. Sor...
• Keywords: Philopatry

We monitored the number of caiman (Caiman crocodilus yacare) nests in two ranches Brazilian Pantanal that cover an area about 50.000 ha for 28 years (1987–2014). The was related to combinations rainfall, water level, and days with temperature below 20°C, depending on area. Most variation could not be predicted by environmental variables, but represented mathematically a sine wave. were able identify any external driver suspect regular fluctuations may have resulted from intrinsic population process. Presently, are used as management units under legislation ranching caimans. However, although some breeding females recaptured after periods up 21 years, most near or general surveys area, suggesting strongly philopatric do represent isolated demographic units.