New northern green anaconda species discovered in the Amazon

Researchers have identified a new species of anaconda in the Amazon, revealing that what was previously considered a single species of green anaconda actually consists of two genetically distinct lineages. The newly identified species, named the northern green anaconda (Eunectes akayima), is genetically separate from the southern green anaconda (Eunectes murinus).

Genetic analysis showed a 5.5% difference between the two species, a significant gap compared to the approximately 2% genetic difference between humans and chimpanzees. Scientists estimate that these two evolutionary lines diverged nearly 10 million years ago. The discovery was made through the analysis of samples collected from Ecuador, Venezuela, and Brazil, alongside physical characteristic examinations.

During an expedition in the Ecuadorian Amazon, researchers encountered a female northern green anaconda measuring 6.3 meters in length. Members of the indigenous Waorani community, who assisted the research team, reported sightings of even larger specimens potentially exceeding 7.5 meters and weighing around 500 kilograms, though these specific dimensions have not yet been scientifically confirmed by the research team.