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Source-This post on Green Anaconda is based on the article “Scientists find the world’s biggest snake yet, a new species of green anaconda” published in “The Hindu” on 20th February 2024.
Why in the News?
A National Geographic expedition in the Amazon led to the reclassification of Green Anaconda into two genetically distinct species: the southern green anaconda and the newly-discovered northern green anaconda (Eunectes akayima).
About Green Anaconda
| Aspect | Details |
| About | 1. It is the world’s biggest snake when you consider both weight and length. 2. It can grow up to 30 feet (9 meters) long and weigh as much as 227 kilograms. |
| Types | Southern green anaconda and the northern green anaconda |
| Distribution | 1. The northern green anaconda resides in countries like Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela, and Guyana. 2. The southern green anaconda can be found in regions such as Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil. |
| Habitat | They usually inhabit tropical rainforests and prefer shallow, slow-moving waters like streams, rivers, and flooded grasslands. |
| Conservation Status | IUCN: Least Concern |
| Characteristics | 1. The green anaconda belongs to a group of snakes known as constrictors, which aren’t venomous. 2. Instead of using venom, constrictors wrap around their prey and squeeze until it stops breathing. Then, they open their mouths wide to swallow their prey whole. 3. They are well-suited for aquatic life with their nose and eyes positioned on the top of their heads, aiding in seeing and breathing while swimming. 4. Typically, females are larger than males. |
UPSC Syllabus- Environment (Species in news)
