Scientists have made an exciting discovery in the Amazon rainforest, identifying two separate species of the green anaconda. This massive aquatic snake, known for its impressive size, measuring up to 21 feet in length, was previously thought to be a single species. However, a study published in the journal MDPI Diversity has revealed that there are actually two distinct species of green anaconda – the northern green anaconda and the southern green anaconda.
The groundbreaking research involved genetic analysis of four recognized anaconda species across nine different countries in South America. Explorers and researchers collected blood and tissue samples from green anacondas in Ecuador, Venezuela, and Brazil to determine the genetic differences between the two species. The study was documented exclusively by National Geographic for their upcoming series “Pole to Pole: With Will Smith.”
The researchers found that the northern green anaconda is genetically distinct from its southern counterpart by 5.5%. To put this into perspective, humans and chimpanzees differ by only 2%. Additionally, the snakes were closely examined to count their scales and record other physical traits that indicated evolutionary divergence.
One of the key differences between the two species is their geographic range. The southern green anaconda, also known as Eunectes murinus, is found across a vast area spanning Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, and parts of French Guiana. On the other hand, the newly described northern green anaconda, or Eunectes akayima, is restricted to Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Suriname, Trinidad, Venezuela, and parts of French Guiana.
Furthermore, the researchers discovered that the northern green anaconda can reach larger sizes than its southern counterpart. During their expedition with Will Smith for National Geographic’s “Pole to Pole” series, they encountered the largest anaconda measuring 6.3 meters (20.6 feet) in length and weighing approximately 793 pounds. However, the Waorani indigenous people, who inhabit the region, claim to have seen even larger snakes, estimating lengths of over 8 meters (26 feet) and weights of 800 kilograms (1,763 pounds).
The expedition into the heart of the Amazon was a true cross-cultural endeavor. Study co-author Bryan Fry, a National Geographic explorer and biologist at the University of Queensland in Australia, was invited by Waorani Chief Penti Baihua to enter the Baihuaeri Waorani Territory in the Ecuadorian Amazon for this research. This invitation was a significant honor, as it was only one of a few granted since the tribe’s first contact in 1958.
Fry and the Waorani collaborators were recognized as co-authors in the journal publication of the study, which Fry considers a career-defining moment. He believes that this discovery is a testament to the surprises that the natural world still holds. The success of the expedition and the inclusion of the Waorani as equal partners highlight the essence of exploration.
However, this discovery also serves as a reminder of the threats faced by the Amazon rainforest. Deforestation, habitat degradation, climate change, and oil spills pose significant risks to this newly discovered species and the entire ecosystem. While this breakthrough is exciting, Fry emphasizes that their work in the Amazon is far from complete. The team continues to study the impact of frequent oil spills in the region and plans to focus on collecting and analyzing soil, water, and biological samples to trace the pathways of contaminants.
The Amazon rainforest offers a kaleidoscope of challenges and wonders for researchers like Fry. From the dense canopy above to the serpentine paths cutting through the darkness of the jungle floor, every step is an adventure. Despite the relentless heat, omnipresent swarm of insects, and symphony of wildlife, Fry finds joy in wading through swamps in search of giant snakes.
This discovery of two separate species of green anaconda is a significant milestone in our understanding of the Amazon rainforest’s biodiversity. It highlights the importance of continued research and conservation efforts to protect this unique ecosystem and its inhabitants. The Amazon holds many more secrets waiting to be uncovered, and scientists like Fry are dedicated to unraveling its mysteries.