Python vs. Anaconda — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on October 31, 2023
Python is a large, non-venomous snake species, while Anaconda is a group of large, aquatic snakes primarily found in South America.
Difference Between Python and Anaconda
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Pythons are a family of non-venomous snakes found in Asia, Africa, and Australia. Anacondas, on the other hand, are a group of snakes that belong to the boa family and are native to South America.
Python snakes can vary significantly in size, with some species like the Burmese python growing exceptionally long. Anacondas, particularly the Green Anaconda, are known to be the heaviest and among the longest snakes in the world.
The habitat of pythons can range from rainforests to deserts depending on the species. Anacondas predominantly reside in swamps, marshes, and slow-moving rivers, being more aquatic in nature.
While both pythons and anacondas are constrictors, meaning they squeeze their prey to last breath, pythons have small, sharp teeth that face backwards, aiding in gripping prey. Anacondas have similar teeth, but their aquatic habitat means they often deal with aquatic prey.
Comparison Chart
Origin of the Word
Derived from the Greek word "Python", a mythical serpent.
Spanish, from Sinhalese "henakandaya" for whip snake.
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Syllables
2 syllables: Py-thon
4 syllables: An-a-con-da
Common Usage
Often used metaphorically to denote something large or powerful.
Less common in metaphoric contexts.
Plural Form
Pythons
Anacondas
Phonetics
/ˈpaɪ.θɑːn/
/ˌæn.əˈkɑːn.də/
Compare with Definitions
Python
A large, non-venomous snake found in Asia, Africa, and Australia.
I watched the python slowly slither across the forest floor.
Anaconda
A large, aquatic snake native to South America.
The anaconda stealthily moved through the marshy waters.
Python
A mythical serpent slain by Apollo near Delphi.
The legend speaks of Apollo defeating the Python to establish his oracle.
Anaconda
An embodiment of might and stealth in water habitats.
The swimmer showcased anaconda-like prowess in the competition.
Python
A person or thing of great size or power.
The new ship was a true python in the naval fleet.
Anaconda
A member of the boa family, known for its size and strength.
The sheer size of the anaconda left the explorers in awe.
Python
A representation of power or stealth.
With python-like precision, he made his move in the game.
Anaconda
A snake often associated with the Amazon River and rainforest.
The dense jungle is home to the elusive anaconda.
Python
Greek Mythology A dragon or serpent that was the tutelary demon of the oracular cult at Delphi until killed and expropriated by Apollo.
Anaconda
A term symbolizing something formidable or overpowering.
The corporation was an anaconda in the business world.
Python
A soothsaying spirit or demon.
Anaconda
Anacondas or water boas are a group of large snakes of the genus Eunectes. They are found in tropical South America.
Python
A person possessed by such a spirit.
Anaconda
Any of various large nonvenomous snakes of the genus Eunectes, found mainly in northern South America. 19
Python
Any of various nonvenomous snakes of the family Pythonidae, found chiefly in Asia, Africa, and Australia, that coil around and asphyxiate their prey. Some pythons can attain lengths of 8 meters (26 feet) or more.
Anaconda
(in particular) The green anaconda; Eunectes murinus.
Python
A type of large constricting snake.
Anaconda
A large South American snake of the Boa family (Eunectes murinus), which lives near rivers, and preys on birds and small mammals. The name is also applied to a similar large serpent (Python tigris) of Ceylon.
Python
Any species of very large snakes of the genus Python, and allied genera, of the family Pythonidæ. They are nearly allied to the boas. Called also rock snake.
Anaconda
Large arboreal boa of tropical South America
Python
A diviner by spirits.
Python
A soothsaying spirit or a person who is possessed by such a spirit
Common Curiosities
How do you pronounce Python?
Python is pronounced as /ˈpaɪ.θɑːn/.
Are Pythons venomous?
No, pythons are not venomous; they are constrictors.
Is Anaconda a term used metaphorically in English?
Yes, "anaconda" can be used to symbolize something formidable or overpowering.
Are all pythons large in size?
While many python species are large, their size can vary significantly among different species.
Are Anacondas the longest snakes in the world?
The Green Anaconda is among the longest snakes, but it's notably recognized as the heaviest.
Which snake, Python or Anaconda, is associated with the Amazon rainforest?
The Anaconda, especially the Green Anaconda, is associated with the Amazon rainforest.
How do you pronounce Anaconda?
Anaconda is pronounced as /ˌæn.əˈkɑːn.də/.
What is a Python in terms of wildlife?
Python is a large, non-venomous snake species found in Asia, Africa, and Australia.
What is an Anaconda in the animal kingdom?
Anaconda is a group of large, aquatic snakes native to South America.
Is the word Python ever used in mythology?
Yes, Python refers to a mythical serpent slain by Apollo near Delphi.
Can both Python and Anaconda be used to refer to power and might?
Yes, both can symbolize power, might, or something of significant size or strength in different contexts.
Are there any cultural or historical significance to the words Python and Anaconda?
Yes, Python has mythological significance in ancient Greek tales, and Anacondas hold cultural importance in many South American stories.
How does the habitat of an Anaconda differ from a Python?
Anacondas are predominantly aquatic, residing in swamps and rivers, while pythons can be found in varied habitats from rainforests to deserts.
Do Pythons and Anacondas belong to the same snake family?
No, pythons belong to the Pythonidae family, while anacondas are part of the Boidae family.
Which is more aquatic in nature, Python or Anaconda?
Anacondas are more aquatic compared to pythons.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
