Dimensions Guide

Snakes are fascinating creatures because of their unique features and movements. They also come in various kinds of colors, lengths and species. Overall, there are more than 2,900 known species and 456 genera. Although many species are non-venomous, venomous species can cause death or painful injury to human beings. In addition to these interesting facts, it is also good to know valuable information about the biggest snake in the world.

Information on the Biggest Snake in the World

Throughout the history of snakes, the biggest ever reported is the extinct Titanoboa carrejonensis. Its fossil was recently discovered, which measured about 13 meters or 43 feet long. In general, this species measured 12 to 15 meters or 39 to 49 feet long. In terms of the biggest living snake, two species are to be considered, namely the anaconda and the reticulated python. Reticulated pythons reported grow at an average length of 9 meters or 30 feet. On the other hand, the anaconda grows at an average length of 7.5 meters or 25 feet long. Aside from being one of the biggest snakes worldwide, it is also regarded as the heaviest.

Additional Facts and Other Interesting Details

An extinct genus of snakes that lived more than 60 million years ago, Titanoboa carrejonensis grew up to 12 to 15 meters or 40 to 50 feet long. Each snake reportedly weighed close to 1,135 kilograms or 2,500 pounds. The thickest part of its body has a diameter of 1 meter or 3 feet. Its fossil was discovered within the coal mines found in La Guajira, Colombia. Because of its massive size, it was able to dethrone the Gigantophis, which was once the biggest snake ever discovered.

Known scientifically as Python reticulatus, the reticulated python is considered the longest reptile and the longest snake worldwide. This particular type of python is described as non-dangerous to human beings and non-venomous. This snake is described as a very good swimmer, an adult of which can grow more than 8.7 meters or 28 feet long. Compared to anacondas, it is not built heavily with a relatively slim frame. It is commonly found in various Southeast Asian countries like Laos, Thailand and Bangladesh.

Scientifically referred to as Eunectes murinus, an anaconda is a non-venomous type of snake, which is commonly found within South American countries. An adult green anaconda can grow up to 7 meters or 23 feet long. The longest snake ever recorded under this species measured 5.21 meters or approximately 17 feet long. This snake is also the heaviest ever-recorded, the official weight of which was 97.5 kilograms or 214.95 pounds. It is usually found in South American countries such as Bolivia, Peru and Venezuela.