Pythons and anacondas are two of the world’s largest constrictor snakes, often captivating public interest with their impressive dimensions. Their immense size frequently leads to questions regarding which species is truly larger. Exploring this common query involves examining their distinct characteristics and measuring them by both length and weight.
Python Characteristics and Size
Pythons are non-venomous constrictors predominantly found across the Old World, inhabiting regions of Asia, Africa, and Australia. The reticulated python (Malayopython reticulatus) is widely recognized as the longest snake globally. Reticulated pythons regularly exceed 6.25 meters (20.5 feet) in length. Record lengths have reached 10 meters (32.8 feet), although lengths beyond 6.5 meters (21.3 feet) are considered rare in the wild.
While known for their length, average adult reticulated pythons typically weigh around 170 kg (375 pounds), though some individuals can reach 270 kg (595 pounds). The Burmese python (Python bivittatus) is another notable python. Adult Burmese pythons generally grow to between 3 and 5 meters (10 and 16 feet) in length and can weigh up to 90.7 kg (200 pounds). Females are often larger and heavier than males, with some reaching 5.8 meters (19 feet) and 97.5 kg (215 pounds).
Anaconda Characteristics and Size
Anacondas are also non-venomous constrictors, native to South America. They are highly adapted to aquatic environments, spending much of their time in swamps, marshes, and slow-moving rivers. The green anaconda (Eunectes murinus) holds the distinction as the world’s heaviest snake.
Typical mature female green anacondas, which are significantly larger than males, average about 4.6 meters (15 feet) in length. These females can weigh between 30 and 80 kg (66 and 176 pounds). Exceptional specimens have been reported to reach lengths of up to 9 meters (29.5 feet) and can weigh as much as 250 kg (550 pounds). A new species, the northern green anaconda (Eunectes akayima), has individuals reaching 7.5 meters (24.6 feet) and 500 kg (1,100 pounds).
Direct Size Comparison
When comparing pythons and anacondas, “bigger” refers to either length or weight. The reticulated python holds the title for the longest snake. Record reticulated pythons measure up to 10 meters (32.8 feet), making them longer than any reliably measured anaconda.
However, the green anaconda surpasses the reticulated python in weight and girth. While reticulated pythons are long and relatively slender, green anacondas possess a more robust and muscular body. A 5.2-meter (17-foot) green anaconda can have a comparable bulk to a 7.3-meter (24-foot) reticulated python. The heaviest green anacondas can reach weights of 250 kg (550 pounds) or more, nearly twice the weight of the largest reticulated pythons. Thus, while pythons stretch longer, anacondas are more massive.