Animal Profiles
Reptiles

Green Anaconda

Eunectes murinus

Living

Living individuals or members of this group exist today. This does not mean they are safe from extinction.

The green anaconda is a heavy-bodied South American boa associated with slow-moving water. It hunts animal prey and gives birth to live young.

Eunectes murinus (green anaconda)

MKAMPIS · CC BY-SA

At a glance

Location
Green anacondas inhabit tropical South American lowlands, using shallow rivers, flooded grasslands and swamps. This account follows the source's treatment of Eunectes murinus.
Habitat
Wetlands, Rivers and lakes, Rainforest
Diet
Carnivore
Food
Fish, reptiles, birds and mammals are taken as prey.

Classification

Common name
Green Anaconda
Browse group
Reptiles
Scientific name or taxon
Eunectes murinus
Taxon rank
species
Family
Boidae
Genus
Eunectes
Source classification
Reptilia

Taxonomy checked against GBIF. For breeds and hybrids, this describes the listed parent taxon.

Three things to know

  • Females are larger than males.
  • Its olive body bears dark blotches.
  • Water is central to its habitat.

Habitat and range

Green anacondas inhabit tropical South American lowlands, using shallow rivers, flooded grasslands and swamps. This account follows the source's treatment of Eunectes murinus.

Appearance and adaptations

An olive-green background and rounded dark markings help distinguish the snake. Its large body is supported by water while swimming.

Diet and behaviour

Fish, reptiles, birds and mammals are taken as prey. It catches prey and constricts it before swallowing. During dry periods, individuals may seek remaining water or shelter in mud.

Sources

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