MUSCAT : The discovery was made by the Snake Survey Team at the Environment Authority in collaboration with the Institute of Evolutionary Biology in Spain and the University of Nizwa. The elusive Black Cobra was recorded in Dhofar Governorate, a region known for its ecological richness. This documentation brings the total number of known snake species in Oman to 22.

Commonly known as the desert black cobra, Walterinnesia aegyptia is widespread across the Middle East and is recognized for its potent venom and elusive behavior. Its presence in Oman not only expands the known habitat range of the species but also highlights the Sultanate’s diverse and dynamic ecosystem. The black cobra, a highly venomous nocturnal snake from the Elapidae family, is known for its uniform glossy black appearance and lack of patterns. Adults can grow up to 150cm in length.

Genetic analysis conducted during the study showed that the specimens found in Dhofar are nearly identical to those recorded in Saudi Arabia and Egypt. Mitochondrial DNA results demonstrated a strong genetic match, leading to Walterinnesia morgani reclassifying as a synonym of W. aegyptia, effectively resolving a long-standing taxonomic debate.

Officials from the Environment Authority noted that this achievement is part of the ongoing work of the Snake Survey Team in Dhofar and contributes to the broader goal of conserving Oman’s natural heritage. The findings were officially published in the renowned international journal Zootaxa in April 2025.

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