Nature · 2009 vertebra-based total-length estimate
How long is a titanoboa cerrejonensis?
The original 2009 Titanoboa study estimated a total length of thirteen meters from fossil vertebrae. The straightened illustration makes that whole-body comparison visible.
≈ 13 m
Sourced measurement- Measurement
- Published fossil-based length estimate · approximately 13 meters
- Subject or version
- 2009 vertebra-based total-length estimate
- Using this value
- A starting value for the illustration, not a universal or confirmed height.
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A little more perspective
Head and colleagues inferred length by comparing the fossil vertebrae with living boid snakes. Their published thirteen-meter estimate is a reconstruction rather than a measurement of a complete skeleton. Later museum exhibit descriptions use other rounded lengths; this entry deliberately retains the dated research estimate.
The snake is shown extended rather than coiled, so its horizontal outline follows total length. This is a comparison pose, not a claim about its usual resting position. Body diameter, scales, color pattern and the precise shape of the head and tail are interpretive.
Quick facts
The original 2009 Titanoboa study estimated a total length of thirteen meters from fossil vertebrae. The straightened illustration makes that whole-body comparison visible.
For a presentation or a research note, include the subject, the measurement definition, and the assumed measurement. A picture alone cannot explain those choices. The comparison guide explains how to export an image and its source notes together.
Sources and measurement notes
- Head et al. 2009, Nature: Giant boid snake, original length estimate
- Smithsonian Institution: 2009 Titanoboa discovery and vertebral method
Thirteen meters is a dated fossil-based length estimate shown in a straightened pose.
Source review recorded . Maintained by Ishan Karunaratne. Suggest a correction with a source and the exact measurement being compared.