Scientists have made an incredible discovery in the Amazon rainforest while filming a Disney+ docuseries called ‘Pole to Pole with Will Smith.’ A team of scientists from The University of Queensland, led by Professor Bryan Fry, uncovered a species of giant anaconda that is believed to be nearly 10 million years old. The discovery was made with the help of the Indigenous Huaorani people, who granted the scientists access to their territory in the Ecuadorian Amazon.
The team of scientists, along with the Huaorani people, embarked on a journey downriver in the Bameno region of the Amazon. They encountered several anacondas lurking in the shallows, waiting for prey. One female anaconda they encountered measured an astonishing 6.3 meters (20.8 feet) long. The size of these creatures was truly magnificent.
The scientists captured several specimens of the newly discovered species, which they named the northern green anaconda (Eunectes akayima). This species differs genetically from the green anaconda found in the larger basin in the south of the Amazon. The genetic difference between the two species is significant, with a 5.5% variation. To put it into perspective, humans differ from chimpanzees by only about 2%.
The discovery of the northern green anaconda sheds light on the biodiversity of the Amazon rainforest and provides valuable insights into the health of the ecosystem. Professor Fry and his team hope to study the reproduction of these anacondas to gain a greater understanding of the overall ecosystem’s well-being.
While this discovery is remarkable, there are anecdotal reports from the Huaorani people of even larger anacondas in the area, measuring over 7.5 meters (24.6 feet) in length and weighing around 500 kilograms (1,102 pounds). These reports highlight the incredible diversity and size of these ancient creatures that inhabit the Amazon rainforest.
The images captured by the scientists during their expedition showcase the sheer size and magnificence of the northern green anaconda. These images provide a rare glimpse into the world of these ancient creatures and serve as a testament to the importance of preserving the Amazon rainforest and its unique biodiversity.
The details of this groundbreaking discovery have been published in the journal MDPI Diversity, allowing scientists and researchers from around the world to delve deeper into the study of these remarkable creatures. The collaboration between the scientific community and Indigenous peoples like the Huaorani is crucial in uncovering the secrets of our planet’s most remote and diverse ecosystems.
The discovery of the largest anaconda species in the Amazon is not only a significant scientific achievement but also a reminder of the wonders that lie within our natural world. It serves as a call to action to protect and preserve these fragile ecosystems for future generations to explore and marvel at. The Amazon rainforest continues to be a source of fascination and discovery, and with each new finding, we gain a deeper understanding of the intricate web of life that exists within its borders.