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ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN VORAKA
Article Published on 01 May 2024 by Celine Ramelli | www.vorakamag.com
Imagine a snake as long as a school bus, slithering through the jungles of prehistoric India. This isn't the stuff of nightmares, but the reality of Vasuki indicus, a newly discovered fossil that has paleontologists rewriting the record books.
Unearthed in Gujarat, India, Vasuki indicus is an extinct giant classified as a madtsoiid snake. While several vertebrae were found, these remains were enough to estimate a staggering body length of 10.9 to 15.2 meters (36 to 50 feet). This places Vasuki indicus as the largest known madtsoiid snake, and potentially the longest snake ever discovered!
The name "Vasuki" is a fitting tribute to the mighty serpent of Hindu mythology who coils around Lord Shiva's neck. Discovered in the Naredi Formation, dating back 47 million years to the Middle Eocene epoch, Vasuki indicus sheds light on the ancient ecosystems of India. Its immense size suggests it was a dominant predator, ruling the prehistoric food chain.
This discovery is significant for a number of reasons. Firstly, it pushes the boundaries of what we thought possible for snake size. Secondly, it provides valuable insights into the diversity and evolution of snakes during this period. Finally, it highlights the potential for further groundbreaking discoveries in India's rich fossil beds.
While more research is needed to fully understand Vasuki indicus, this colossal serpent serves as a powerful reminder of the fascinating creatures that once roamed our planet.