Why in News?
In 2024, researchers reported the discovery of fossils of Vasuki indicus, a giant prehistoric snake that lived in India approximately 47 million years ago. The fossils were recovered from the Panandhro Lignite Mine in Kutch, Gujarat. The findings were published in the journal Scientific Reports.
About Vasuki indicus
- Geological period: Middle Eocene, approximately 47 million years ago.
- Location of discovery: Panandhro Lignite Mine, Kutch district, Gujarat.
- Estimated length: Between 10.9 and 15.2 metres (36–50 feet).
- Researchers: Debajit Datta and Sunil Bajpai of the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee.
- Fossil evidence: Researchers examined 27 fossilised vertebrae, several of which were well preserved, with some remaining connected in their original arrangement.
- Evolutionary significance: Its enormous estimated size and evolutionary history provide insights into the diversity of giant snakes that inhabited ancient India.
Origin of the Name
The name Vasuki indicus has two parts:
- Vasuki: Named after Vasuki, the mythical serpent associated with the Hindu deity Shiva.
- Indicus: Refers to India, where the fossils were discovered.
Source: Science Daily
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