A mysterious giant green Anaconda never-seen-footage captured in Northern Amazon

The northern green anaconda found in Amazon. (Image: National Geographic)

• Scientists discovered a new 17-foot anaconda species in the Ecuadorian Amazon.
• Genetic tests show northern green anaconda diverged 10 million years ago.
• Discovery highlights Amazon biodiversity and indigenous knowledge in science.

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Deep in the Ecuadorian Amazon, scientists made a shocking discovery. A giant anaconda slithered through the river, nearly 17 feet long. This anaconda species has never officially documented before. Scientists caught it on never-before-seen footage.

Who Discovered the New Anaconda Species?

Local Waorani guides and scientists spotted the massive snake. Bryan Fry, a toxicologist, helped collect tissue samples. National Geographic captured the expedition on film. The team carefully approached the giant reptile in the wild. Together, they documented one of the Amazon’s largest predators.

What Makes This Anaconda Different?

Genetic tests revealed it is a new species. The northern green anaconda (Eunectes akayima) differs from its southern cousin. Its DNA diverged about 10 million years ago. The difference is 5.5%, larger than human-chimp variation. It hunts differently and occupies a unique ecological niche.

When Was the Discovery Made?

The snake was encountered during a 2022 expedition. Footage and tissue samples were collected during the Amazon fieldwork. The finding was recently confirmed through genetic analysis. Scientists waited for lab results to officially classify it. The discovery now appears in National Geographic’s upcoming series.

Where Does This Giant Live?

The northern green anaconda inhabits the northern Amazon basin. Countries include Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela, Trinidad, and Guyana. The southern green anaconda stays in Brazil, Peru, Bolivia and French Guiana. They prefer dense riverine habitats with abundant prey. The jungle provides perfect camouflage for these elusive predators.

Why Is This Discovery Important?

It deepens understanding of Amazon biodiversity. It shows the power of Indigenous knowledge in science. Males eat different prey than females, revealing ecosystem patterns. The species can act as a natural pollution indicator. It highlights how much of the Amazon remains undiscovered.

How Did Scientists Study This Giant Snake?

They collected tissue samples for genetic analysis. They observed its behaviour in the river without causing harm. The footage was recorded for scientific and public awareness. Scientists analysed diet, habitat and ecological impact. Careful methodology ensured safety for both humans and snake.