Scientists recently made an astonishing discovery, only to find it tragically dead in the Brazilian rainforest. In February, researchers working on a National Geographic series called Pole to Pole with Will Smith stumbled upon something incredible – blood and tissue samples revealed that the southern green anaconda and the northern green anaconda were actually two distinct species, with a five-and-a-half percent genetic difference between them. One particularly large individual, named Ana Julia, was identified as a newly discovered northern green anaconda, making them the largest snakes on the planet.
Ana Julia measured an astounding 6.3 meters in length and weighed 200 kilograms. Biologist Freek Vonk, part of the research team, shared the heartbreaking news of the snake’s demise on Instagram. He described Ana Julia as a mighty, powerful animal that had been swimming in the rivers of Bonito for decades. Despite being in excellent health, authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding its death. Wildlife photographer Cristian Dimitris confirmed Ana Julia’s identity by comparing unique markings on her face – akin to fingerprints. The loss of such a magnificent creature is a significant blow to biodiversity.
