World’s Largest Snake Found in Amazon Rainforest: The Northern Green Anaconda

In the dense Amazon rainforest of Ecuador, researchers have uncovered a new species of giant snake called the Northern Green Anaconda (Eunectes akayima). This enormous snake stretches 26 feet long and weighs about 500 kilograms, surpassing all previous records for snake size.

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The discovery was made in the Bihueri Waorani Territory, a remote area of the Amazon. Scientists collaborated with the indigenous Waorani people, who have extensive knowledge of the local wildlife.

Genetic analysis revealed that this new species differs by 5.5% from its closest relative, the Southern Green Anaconda. To put this in perspective, humans and chimpanzees differ by about 2%. This significant genetic difference suggests that the two anaconda species diverged approximately 10 million years ago.

The discovery highlights the rich biodiversity of the Amazon and underscores the importance of conservation efforts. As deforestation and climate change threaten these ecosystems, scientists emphasize the need to protect such unique species and their habitats.

🌎 Where Was It Found?

• Location: Bihueri Waorani Territory, deep in the Amazon rainforest of Ecuador.
• The discovery was made during a filming expedition for a National Geographic documentary led by Prof. Freek Vonk, a Dutch biologist and explorer.
• The team worked closely with the indigenous Waorani people, who helped guide them through the rainforest and provided knowledge about the snake.

📏 Size and Weight

• Length: Up to 26 feet (about 8 meters)
• Weight: Around 500 kilograms (over 1,100 pounds)
• This makes it the largest snake ever recorded, even bigger than the previously known green anacondas in South America.

🧬 What Makes It a New Species?

• Scientists performed DNA tests and found that this new snake is 5.5% genetically different from its closest relative, the Southern Green Anaconda.
• For comparison, humans and chimpanzees are only about 2% genetically different.
• This big genetic gap suggests the two species separated over 10 million years ago.

🌿 Why Is This Important?

• The discovery shows that the Amazon still holds many unknown species, highlighting its rich biodiversity.
• It proves the value of working with local communities who have deep knowledge of the land and its creatures.
• It also reminds us why conserving rainforests is important — many species could be lost before they’re even discovered.

🌌 Fun Fact

• The anaconda was first seen while swimming in the Amazon River — scientists described it as peaceful but extremely powerful.

📽️ Watch the Discovery

• Here’s the link to the official National Geographic video featuring the snake and the discovery:
  👉 Watch on YouTube