In a major ecological breakthrough, scientists have confirmed the first recorded presence of the black cobra (Walterinnesia aegyptia) in Dhofar governorate, according to local media reports.
The discovery raises the total number of scientifically documented snake species in Oman to 22.
The find was made by researchers from the University of Nizwa’s Natural and Medical Sciences Research Centre, in collaboration with the Institute of Evolutionary Biology in Spain.
The discovery has been officially published in the international journal Zootaxa, and the supporting data uploaded to MorphoBank, a global open-access scientific database.
Genetic testing showed a near-identical match between the specimens found in Oman and those previously recorded in Saudi Arabia and Egypt. As a result, scientists have synonymized Walterinnesia morgani with W. aegyptia, resolving a longstanding taxonomic dispute.Cobra
Desert Black Cobra: Stealthy and dangerous
The desert black cobra, a member of the Elapidae family, is known for its glossy, jet-black appearance and highly venomous nature. It is primarily nocturnal, with adults reaching up to 150 cm in length. Juveniles tend to be less defensive compared to other cobra species.
Officials from the Omani Environment Authority have praised the discovery as a significant step in the country’s biodiversity research. They attributed the success to the efforts of the Snake Survey Team in Dhofar.
The confirmed presence of the black cobra underscores Oman’s importance as a regional biodiversity hotspot, local media added.
