Researchers have revealed fascinating details about snake fossils discovered in Gujarat in 2005. Named Vasuki Indicus, these fossils belong to the largest snake known to have roamed the Earth. It lived around 47 million years ago in the forests of Kutch. Estimated to be between 36 to 50 feet in length and weighing about 1000 kilograms, this snake might have been the successor of the Titanoboa species. Its length could surpass 42 feet, making it longer than the world's longest living snake, the Python, which measures 33 feet.
The fossils indicate that Vasuki IndicusĀ moved slowly, similar to Anacondas and Pythons, and it hunted its prey swiftly. During the dangerous temperature conditions of its time, it likely roamed the marshy grounds in search of cooler spots. The name "Vasuki" comes from Hindu mythology, referring to the snake Vasuki, known for its immense size and being the king of snakes, coiled around Lord Shiva's neck.
Discovery and Research
The Vasuki IndicusĀ fossils were discovered by IIT-Roorkee paleontology professor Sunil Bajpai in a coal mine in Kutch in 2005. Initially, he mistook them for crocodile fossils and kept them in his laboratory until 2022. When another scientist, Datta, joined him, they both conducted further research on these fossils. They realized the fossils did not belong to a crocodile but resembled the extinct Titanoboa species. Despite some differences in shape, they believe this snake evolved as a continuation of the Titanoboa lineage.
