The Cobra from Asia...Cobrasian?

 The Cobra. Snakes have always fascinated me. They're long, distinctive faces, and the fact that they have been portrayed as being evil and maleficent in pop culture leaves many people to not like these Reptiles. However, for those of you who may have an inkling of interest in these beautiful animals. Cobras are part of the Elapoidea family. Think of a Family Tree called Elapoida and you'll find Cobras, Coral Snakes and Mambas in this family tree, they are all part of this "Superfamily". 

Scientists have thought that the Elapoidea family originated in Africa. However just a couple of days ago, on August 7th, 2024, the Royal Society Open Science research group used genetic analysis and fossils from other regions to conclude that these snakes, as well as snakes in the related superfamily Colubroidea, actually originated in Asia. So, in essence, science class will have to update their books.

 The reason for this new understanding? Well, now that more research has been done, and the advancement of technology, scientists compiled comprehensive genetic data on the Superfamily. They analyzed 3,128 locations on the genomes of 65 species of Elapoidea to decipher how all the snakes were related. This data captured alongside other species concluded that the family tree linked up all the way to Asia some 40 million years ago. Asia's climate isn't the best for preserving fossils, hence the reason none were ever found in Asia, but were found in Africa. So, Cobra's or at least their ancestors began in Asia, not Africa. 

Check out the video below on YouTube. It's from the Australian Reptile Park where we see Operations Manager Billy Collett do a health check on a King Cobra. For more information you can check out their website: https://www.reptilepark.com.au/