Ancient Giant Snake Fossil Unearthed in India
A new species of giant prehistoric snake, named “Vasuki indicus”, has recently been discovered in India. According to a study published in the journal Scientific Reports, researchers found 27 vertebrae of this massive snake in a lignite coal mine in the western state of Gujarat.
The scientists estimated that “Vasuki indicus” lived approximately 47 million years ago and could reach a length of 11 to 15 meters, making it one of the largest snakes to have ever existed. Despite its size, this ancient snake species was not poisonous and resembled a large python.
The researchers compared the vertebrae of “Vasuki indicus” with those of living snake skeletons to determine its size. They concluded that the giant snake was a slow-moving predator that likely ambushed its prey. Remains of catfish, turtles, crocodiles, and primitive whales found near the fossil suggest that “Vasuki indicus” lived in swampy areas and may have hunted these animals.
The discovery of “Vasuki indicus” sheds light on the diverse prehistoric fauna that once inhabited India. The largest snake alive today, the Asian reticulated python, is known to reach lengths of up to 10 meters, making “Vasuki indicus” an impressive and formidable predator from millions of years ago.
