The longest venomous snake in the world is the King Cobra (Ophiophagus hannah). With its regal name, the King Cobra certainly lives up to its reputation as the largest venomous snake on the planet. This impressive reptile can grow up to a staggering length of 18.5 feet (5.6 meters)!

Found primarily in the forests of Southeast Asia, the King Cobra is renowned for its iconic hood, which it expands when threatened or agitated. This makes it even more fearsome-looking, and it serves as a warning to potential predators to keep their distance. Despite its intimidating size and venomous bite, the King Cobra is not usually aggressive towards humans unless provoked.

The venom of the King Cobra is highly potent and can be lethal to its prey. It produces a neurotoxin that affects the nervous system, causing paralysis and eventually leading to respiratory failure. The King Cobra's venom is so powerful that it can kill a full-grown elephant within a few hours. Fortunately, bites on humans are relatively rare, thanks to the King Cobra's shy nature and its preference for avoiding human settlements.

These majestic snakes primarily feed on other snakes, including venomous ones. They have a unique ability to feed on other King Cobras, making them apex predators in their ecosystem. Their diet also consists of lizards, birds, and small mammals. The King Cobra uses its keen sense of smell to track down prey and its powerful jaws to deliver a lethal bite. It then swallows its prey whole, thanks to its incredibly flexible jaws.

Conservation efforts are crucial for the survival of the King Cobra. Despite being protected by law in many countries, it faces significant threats, including habitat loss due to deforestation and illegal wildlife trade. The King Cobra plays an essential role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems by controlling populations of venomous snakes and other small mammals.

In conclusion, the King Cobra holds the title for the longest venomous snake in the world, reaching an impressive length of 18.5 feet. With its potent venom and iconic hood, this majestic reptile is a formidable predator in its natural habitat. However, it is important to protect and preserve its environment to ensure the survival of this remarkable species.

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