What is the longest venomous snake species in the world?

The king cobra is the world’s longest venomous snake species.

Adults commonly measure around 3–4 metres, and exceptional individuals can exceed 5 metres. The species lives across forests and other habitats in South and Southeast Asia. Unlike many snakes, it is famous for raising the front part of its body and spreading a hood when threatened.

The king cobra belongs to its own genus, Ophiophagus, a name meaning “snake-eater.” Its diet often includes other snakes, including venomous species, as well as occasional lizards and small vertebrates. It delivers venom through relatively short fixed fangs rather than the long, hinged fangs found in vipers.

The king cobra is not the same animal as the common cobra species in the genus Naja. It is also not automatically the most venomous snake by every scientific measure; “longest venomous snake” is a separate claim from venom potency or danger to humans. Habitat loss and persecution threaten many populations.