Incredible discovery in India: prehistoric giant snake unearthed

A new scientific study identifies a colossal prehistoric snake originating from India. Its astounding size makes it one of the largest snakes known so far, second only to the Titanoboa according to estimates.

In an astonishing find in India, a team of archaeologists has examined the fossilized vertebrae of an ancient creature, identifying a prehistoric snake like no other. The remains, previously uncovered, belong to an adult reptile of impressive size.

The discovery was detailed in a new scientific paper published in the journal Scientific Reports. In Kutch, in the state of Gujarat, archaeologists have unearthed 27 vertebrae.

The find dates back to 2005, but only recently have researchers fully understood the ancient species they had in their hands.

Initially, it was believed that the remains were those of a creature similar to a crocodile, but this was not the case. Further investigations have shown it to be a snake from the Eocene epoch. The species has been named Vasuki indicus.

The chosen name honors Vasuki, the devoted snake of Shiva, typically depicted around the neck of the Hindu deity. Based on the findings, researchers estimate that the Vasuki indicus was a colossal predator from a unique lineage.

It is believed to have measured between 36 and 49 feet and weighed about 2200 pounds, making it the largest known representative of the now-extinct Madtsoiidae family. Experts believe these characteristics were due to the environment in which the snake lived.

The warm climate of its ecosystem, presumed to be a swamp, and the absence of natural predators would have favored the reptile’s growth. Little is known about the dietary habits of the Vasuki indicus, but it is possible that its prey included turtles and crocodiles.

This assumption is supported by the fossils of these animals found in the area. Researchers suggest that the species was an “ambush predator,” similar to pythons and anacondas, lying in wait for prey in its hiding spot before striking.

The size of the Vasuki indicus makes it one of the largest snakes ever, second only to the Titanoboa. With an estimated length of 42.7 feet the latter is considered the largest snake to have ever lived on Earth. Its remains were found in a mine in northern Colombia in 2009.

Source: Scientific Reports