In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists on a National Geographic expedition, led by TV wildlife presenter Professor Freek Vonk, have identified the world’s largest snake in the heart of the Amazon rainforest. The colossal anaconda, measuring an astounding 26 feet in length, weighing 440 pounds, and boasting a head comparable in size to a human’s, was found during the filming of the National Geographic Disney+ series ‘Pole to Pole’ with actor Will Smith.
This newfound snake species has been given the Latin name ‘Eunectes akayima,’ denoting it as the Northern Green Anaconda. Professor Vonk, who bravely swam alongside the giant anaconda, shared a video on Instagram, capturing the awe-inspiring moment and describing the encounter as encountering a “monster.”
Previously, the Amazon was believed to be home to only one species of green anaconda, commonly known as the giant anaconda. However, the research team, comprising 14 scientists from nine countries, concluded that the northern green anaconda is a distinct species from its southern counterpart. The new species, outlined in the journal Diversity, diverged from the southern green anaconda around 10 million years ago, showcasing a genetic difference of 5.5 percent.
The discovery holds significant implications for anaconda conservation, as these apex predators play a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem balance. Understanding the genetic distinctions between anaconda species can aid in developing targeted conservation strategies, ensuring the preservation of these remarkable creatures and their habitats.