Atsnakes appeared on the planet millions of years ago, more precisely in a period known as the Cretaceous. Since then many species have emerged and many have become extinct. Currently, there are approximately 3000 species.
Some species are known for their ability to inject poison; others, however, are characterized by their large size and impressive ability to crush prey. This last case is that of the dreaded anacondas, also known as anaconda.
There are four species of anaconda, all belonging to the Boidae family and genus Eunectes. These species do not have venom and kill their prey by constriction, that is, they wrap themselves around the victim and exert great pressure that causes suffocation. Anaconda live most of the time in the water of rivers and lakes (semi-aquatic habit) and feed on the most varied types of animals, such as fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals.
These snakes are more agile when they are in the water, so when they flee from any danger, they immediately seek to return to that location. It is estimated that an anaconda spends an average of ten minutes submerged without having to go to the surface.
the anacondas are reptiles viviparous and produce about 20 to 40 offspring per gestation. Puppies are born in water and there is no parental care, that is, mothers do not take care of their children. Depending on the species of anaconda, pregnancy can take six months.
Anaconda have no venom, but can cause painful bites
Cases of humans devoured by snakes they are often described, however, no account is known to present concrete evidence. However, this hypothesis cannot be highlighted, since there are individuals with more than five meters in length that would be fully capable of ingesting a child, for example. It is noteworthy that reports of severe bites, despite the absence of venom, and constriction are known.
it is believed that an anaconda can reach up to 10 meters in length and weigh 100 kg, however, this size is not easily found in nature. These animals grow throughout their lifetime, so the bigger a snake, the older it is. An anaconda lives an average of 30 years.
Many researchers believe that the lack of giant anacondas in the wild is a consequence of habitat destruction and hunting. It is important to emphasize that the death of these animals is an environmental crime and can generate fines.
By Ma. Vanessa dos Santos
