May 16, 2025
Meet the 500-Kilo giant: New Anaconda species found in Ecuador
Siddhartha JanaConservation urgency
There are major dangers from illegal wildlife trading, climate change, and habitat degradation. To preserve the new species, scientists recommend taking precautions.
Source: Canva
Ecological significance
These snakes contribute to the management of prey populations and serve as indicators of a thriving rainforest ecosystem that is rich in biodiversity and clean water.
Source: Canva
10 million-year split
According to DNA research, this species was 5.5% genetically different from the southern green anaconda around 10 million years ago.
Source: Canva
Indigenous knowledge validated
Waorani tribe had long spoken of 7.5-meter-long enormous snakes. Their local expertise supported the scientific results.
Source: Canva
Captured on camera
Several enormous snakes were spotted and recorded during the National Geographic filming of Pole to Pole, which Will Smith was working on.
Source: Canva
Found in Ecuador
Initially observed in Ecuador's Baihuaeri Waorani Territory, the species was examined with the assistance of nearby indigenous groups and taken for scientific verification.
Source: Canva
Apex predator power
It hunts with strength and stealth, consuming prey such as jaguars, deer, and capybaras. It does this by squeezing bones with its muscles and then swallowing them whole.
Source: Canva
Record-breaking size
The Green Anaconda, the previous record holder, was surpassed in both size and weight by this anaconda, which can reach 7.5 meters (24.6 feet) and weigh 500 kg (1,100 lbs).
Source: Canva
New snake species discovered
In 2024, researchers uncovered the Northern Green Anaconda in the Amazon, which broke records for the largest and heaviest snake ever recorded.
Source: Canva
Horoscope Today, May 16, 2025: Astrological prediction for all sun signs