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Terra Natura adds one of the world’s rarest snakes in major scientific milestone

 

Benidorm / 7 May 2026

 

Terra Natura Benidorm has become one of the very few wildlife parks in the world to house the elusive Trimeresurus gunaleni — a venomous arboreal viper so rarely seen that experts say there are virtually no documented specimens in public zoo collections globally.

 

Nicknamed the “Green Ghost of Gunalen,” the species was only scientifically identified in 2014 and originates from the remote tropical forests of Sumatra.

 

Rare species with scientific importance

The arrival of the snake is being described as a major milestone for the Benidorm park and for herpetological research in Europe.

 

According to Terra Natura, the park received a juvenile breeding pair from the National Center for Venomous Animals (CNAV), where they have remained under strict veterinary and environmental observation during quarantine.

 

The male specimen is now on public display.

Experts say the species is particularly important because:

• Very little scientific data exists about it
• It is rarely observed even in the wild
• Its venom may provide future biomedical and antivenom research opportunities
• Its reproductive behaviour differs from most related vipers

 

Unlike many species in its genus, Trimeresurus gunaleni is oviparous (egg-laying), making it especially interesting for conservation and biological study.

 

“Green ghost” of the rainforest

The snake is known for its striking lime-green colour with bluish tones and exceptional camouflage ability, allowing it to almost disappear among dense jungle vegetation.

 

Its nocturnal and highly discreet behaviour has contributed to the species remaining poorly understood by scientists since its discovery.

 

The name honours Indonesian herpetologist Danny Gunalen, who helped identify the species.

 

Research and conservation role

Terra Natura says the arrival strengthens its role in:

• Wildlife conservation
• Captive breeding programmes
• Environmental education

 

Scientific collaboration involving venom research and biodiversity protection

The park plans to include the species in educational talks and conservation outreach programmes to raise awareness about lesser-known reptiles and rainforest ecosystems.

 

Wider trend in modern zoos

The acquisition reflects a broader shift among European wildlife parks toward conservation-focused collections rather than purely exhibition animals.

 

Increasingly, zoos are participating in:

• Captive breeding of vulnerable species
• Scientific research partnerships
• Habitat conservation initiatives

 

Public education around biodiversity loss and climate threats

Terra Natura currently houses more than 150 animal species, many considered vulnerable or endangered.