Why Are Crocodiles and Caimans Alike?

Caimans belong to the same family as the American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis); they're more distantly related to crocodiles, which belong to a separate family under the order Crocodylia.

How are crocodiles and caimans alike?

Alligators and caimans both have a rounded, U-shaped snout and tend to have an overbite, while crocodiles have a V-shaped snout and no overbite. If you ever see their sharp teeth up close, caimans and crocodiles have dagger-shaped teeth and the inside of their mouths are an orange-ish color.

Are crocodiles alligators and caimans related?

Alligators, Crocodiles, caimans, and gharial are related, but are different species. Gators have a wide rounded “U” shaped snout that packs more crushing power to eat prey like turtles. Croc's have “V” shaped snouts.