NEWS – Karnataka’s king cobra, known locally as Kaalinga Sarpa, will be officially named Ophiophagus Kaalinga in the scientific community. This species has cultural significance, inspiring references in film and literature.

HIGHLIGHTS

Historical Background

• In 1836, Danish naturalist Theodore Edward Cantor first classified a broad spectrum of king cobra species as Ophiophagus hannah.
• Until recently, all king cobras across South and South-East Asia were thought to belong to one species.

Genetic Research

• A decade-long study led by herpetologist Dr. P. Gowri Shankar revealed four distinct species of king cobra.
• Over 200 samples were collected for genetic analysis, leading to the identification of:
  • Western Ghats Lineage (Kaalinga)
  • Indo-Chinese Lineage
  • Indo-Malaysian Lineage
  • Luzon Island Lineage (Salvatana)

Significance of ‘Kaalinga’

1. Extensive Sampling
   • The study involved DNA mapping and sampling from multiple countries.
   • Findings indicated the Western Ghats lineage as distinct from others in India.
2. Formal Naming
   • On November 22, Kaalinga and Salvatana will be formally named in Bengaluru.
   • The announcement was featured in the European Journal of Taxonomy in September 2023.

Unique Characteristics of King Cobras

• King cobra venom, though not the most potent, can deliver a fatal dose sufficient to kill 10 people or even an elephant.
• Discovery of four species paves the way for species-specific anti-venom, which is currently unavailable in India.
• King cobras are the only snake species to build nests (4 ft x 3 ft), which are fiercely guarded by females.
• Each clutch contains 23–43 eggs, and females leave the nest before hatchlings emerge.