A one-ton snake discovered in India
Scientists in India have uncovered the fossilized remains of a massive snake believed to be one of the largest ever to have lived on Earth, measuring about 16 meters in length and weighing up to a ton.
The findings, published in Scientific Reports, provide insights into prehistoric biodiversity on the Indian subcontinent.
Researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology found a well-preserved portion of the snake’s vertebral column.
Dr. Rajesh Kumar, the study’s lead author, expressed excitement about the exceptional preservation of the specimen.
Based on 27 vertebrae, the snake was identified as belonging to the now-extinct species “Vasuki indicus.”
The name “Vasuki” is inspired by Indian mythology, referring to the snake coiled around the neck of the god Shiva, highlighting the cultural significance of snakes in Indian folklore.
The fossils suggest that Vasuki indicus was not only a gigantic snake but also a powerful predator, likely relying on ambush tactics similar to modern snakes, using constriction to capture its prey.
Vasuki indicus had a robust build, with a wide cylindrical body weighing up to 1000 kilograms, making it a true beast of the ancient world.
Researchers trace the lineage of these giant snakes to a family that thrived for nearly 100 million years across Africa, Europe, and India. However, Vasuki indicus holds a unique position, having evolved specifically on the Indian subcontinent about 56 to 34 million years ago.
This discovery highlights India’s rich paleontological heritage, with researchers emphasizing the importance of such findings in uncovering prehistoric life.
