Green Anaconda: In a groundbreaking discovery from the heart of the Amazon rainforest, scientists in 2024 identified a massive new species of snake—the Northern Green Anaconda (Eunectes akayima). This giant serpent has officially earned the title of the world’s largest and heaviest snake ever recorded, rewriting the records of reptilian biology.
A Historic Discovery in the Amazon
Deep within the Baihuaeri Waorani Territory of Ecuador, researchers—working alongside the indigenous Waorani community—encountered this mammoth snake in the Bameno region. The discovery was made during the filming of Pole to Pole with Will Smith for National Geographic’s Disney+ series.
The most impressive specimen documented so far was a female measuring 6.3 meters (20.7 feet). However, local reports claim that some individuals may exceed 7.5 meters (24.6 feet) in length and weigh up to 500 kilograms (1,100 pounds).
How It Compares to Other Snakes
Previously, the title of the largest snake belonged to the Green Anaconda (Eunectes murinus). But this new species—Northern Green Anaconda—surpasses it in both length and weight.
| Feature | Northern Green Anaconda | Green Anaconda (Old Record Holder) |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Length | 7.5 meters (24.6 feet) | Up to 6.7 meters (22 feet) |
| Estimated Weight | Up to 500 kg (1,100 lbs) | Up to 250 kg (550 lbs) |
| Genetic Difference | 5.5% from Southern counterpart | — |
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Predatory Power: Nature’s Silent Assassin
These colossal snakes are apex predators in their ecosystem. Living in murky Amazonian waters, they ambush their prey with lightning-fast precision. Their thick girth allows them to swallow large animals whole, including:
- Capybaras
- Caimans
- Deer
- Jaguars
Rather than using venom, they rely on constriction—wrapping around the prey and applying immense pressure until bones crack and the heart stops. Their powerful bite helps secure prey during this deadly process.
A 10-Million-Year Evolutionary Split
According to a 2024 study published in Diversity, DNA analysis showed a 5.5% genetic difference between the Northern and Southern green anacondas. That’s more than twice the difference between humans and chimpanzees (which is ~2%).
This suggests the Northern Green Anaconda diverged from its southern relative nearly 10 million years ago, evolving unique traits to adapt to its specific Amazonian habitat.
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Why This Discovery Matters for Conservation
The finding of the Northern Green Anaconda is not just a scientific milestone—it’s a conservation alarm bell. These snakes play a crucial role in balancing rainforest ecosystems by regulating prey populations.
Threats to Their Survival Include:
- Deforestation and habitat loss
- Climate change impacting Amazon waterways
- Illegal hunting and wildlife trade
Scientists now urge immediate conservation measures to protect these rare giants before they are endangered.
Key Facts About the Northern Green Anaconda
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Eunectes akayima |
| First Discovered | 2024, Ecuadorian Amazon |
| Max Length | 7.5 meters (24.6 feet) |
| Max Weight | 500 kg (1,100 lbs) |
| Habitat | Wetlands and rivers of the Amazon |
| Behavior | Solitary, aquatic, ambush predator |
Conclusion
The discovery of the Northern Green Anaconda marks one of the most incredible wildlife revelations of the 21st century. As the largest living snake on Earth, it highlights the untapped biodiversity of the Amazon and reinforces the need for urgent environmental protection. If safeguarded properly, these majestic giants could continue to roam the rainforest for generations to come.
