What is the king cobras scientific name? The king cobra scientific name is Ophiophagus hannah.
The scientific name of the king cobra is one of the most frequently searched topics among individuals who study reptiles, wildlife, and biological classification. The king cobra is famous for its huge size, unique behaviour, and strong presence in Asian forests. Besides, the readers are also eager to learn the scientific name of the king cobra, including its genus, habitat, diet, types, lifespan, color, and the exact meaning plus pronunciation of its Latin name.
What is the King Cobra Scientific Name?
The king cobra scientific name is Ophiophagus hannah.
- Pronunciation: Oh-fee-oh-fay-gus han-nah
- Meaning: The term “Ophiophagus” indicates the snake habits of the king cobra as it preys on other snakes. The name “Hannah” is from a tree that grows in the places where king cobras were first found.
They all point to one sole species: Ophiophagus hannah.
Meaning of the Scientific Name of King Cobra
The scientific name of the king cobra summarizes the diet and behavior of the species.
- Ophiophagus: snake-eater
- Hannah: associated with forested areas of Southeast Asia.
The meaning corresponds to the natural habit of the king cobra, as it mainly feeds on snakes and not on rodents or birds.
Biological Classification of King Cobra
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Reptilia |
| Order | Squamata |
| Family | Elapidae |
| Genus | Ophiophagus |
| Species | Ohannah |
This classification is used for biological and zoological studies worldwide.

