In a monumental discovery, scientists have unearthed the fossilized remains of a mysterious snake species in Gujarat, India, dating back approximately 47 million years.
Discovery and Naming
The fossil was discovered by Prof. Sunil Bajpai and Debajit Datta from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Roorkee. Dubbed Vasuki Indicus, the snake species draws its name from the mythical serpent Vasuki, associated with Lord Shiva in Hindu mythology. This naming choice reflects the symbolic significance of the serpent in Hindu beliefs. Vasuki Indicus is estimated to have been one of the largest snakes ever known, with lengths reaching between 11 to 15 meters.
Exciting Findings
The discovery, made in the Panandhro Lignite Mine in Kutch, Gujarat, has sparked immense excitement among researchers. Through the examination of 27 preserved vertebrae, scientists have pieced together the dimensions of Vasuki Indicus. Their analysis, based on measurements ranging from 37.5 to 62.7 millimeters, has drawn comparisons to other colossal snakes, such as the Titanoboa. It is believed that Vasuki Indicus moved with a slow, stealthy grace reminiscent of modern-day anacondas, stalking its prey with precision.
Taxonomic Classification and Origin
Vasuki Indicus belongs to the Madtsoiidae family of snakes, which were distributed across various regions including Africa, Europe, and India. Scientists speculate that the species originated in India during the Eocene Epoch, between 56 to 34 million years ago, before dispersing to other continents such as Europe and Africa.
Insights into Earth’s History
This discovery holds significant implications for paleontologists worldwide, offering insights into Earth’s ancient history. The warm climate of Gondwanaland, with an average temperature of around 28°C, is believed to have facilitated the remarkable size of Vasuki Indicus. As members of the Madtsoiidae family thrived for approximately 100 million years, spanning from the Late Cretaceous to the Late Pleistocene age, this finding enriches our understanding of prehistoric ecosystems, biodiversity, and the evolutionary trajectories of colossal snake species during the Eocene era.
The discovery of Vasuki Indicus adds another chapter to the ongoing exploration of India’s rich paleontological heritage, shedding light on the diverse wildlife and geological history of the subcontinent and contributing to our understanding of the global distribution of ancient snake species.
