CreatureData

Indian python vs Lesser African python

The lesser African python is heavier: 73 kg against 17.1 kg for the Indian python, about 4.3 times the weight.

Indian python (Python molurus)
Indian python NTNear Threatened
Photo: Pratik Jain · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

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Lesser African python

What is the difference between a Indian python and a lesser African python?

Each point below is worked out from a pair of recorded values.

  • The lesser African python is heavier: 73 kg against 17.1 kg for the Indian python, about 4.3 times the weight.
  • The Indian python is longer-lived: 34.2 years against 30 years for the lesser African python, about 14% longer.
  • Both belong to the genus Python, so they are close relatives.

Side by side

Indian pythonLesser African python
Scientific namePython molurusPython natalensis
FamilyPythonidaePythonidae
OrderSquamataSquamata
Weight17.1 kg73 kg
Length3 mNot recorded
Lifespan34.1 years – 34.2 years27.3 years – 30 years
Main foodNot recordedNot recorded
HabitatNot recordedNot recorded
Conservation statusNear ThreatenedNot recorded
Countries recordedNot recordedNot recorded

A scale drawing needs a recorded length for both animals; only weights are on record for this pair.

Full record: Indian pythonFull record: Lesser African pythonCompare other animals