Muscat: The black cobra, a highly venomous species, has been observed for the first time in Oman. The Environment Authority has officially recorded the initial documentation of the black desert cobra in the Dhofar Governorate. This achievement was made possible through collaboration with the Institute of Evolutionary Biology in Spain and Nizwa University, representing a notable addition to Oman’s expanding catalog of snake species.
With the identification of the black desert cobra (Walterinnesia aegyptia), the total number of officially recognized snake species in Oman has now reached 22, underscoring the nation’s dedication to biodiversity conservation and scientific exploration of its native wildlife.
The black desert cobra, recognized for its potent venom, is prevalent throughout the Middle East. Its documentation in Oman significantly contributes to scientific research, with the findings published in the scientific journal ZOOTAXA in April 2025.
