Preface

In an extraordinary archaeological revelation, researchers in India have uncovered the fossil remains of a rare, crocodile-like species from the Jurassic era in western Rajasthan. This captivating find, measuring about 1.5 to two metres, traces back over 200 million years, offering a priceless window into prehistoric life. The excavation took place in Megha village, located in the Jaisalmer district by senior hydrogeologist Dr. Narayandas Inkhiya and his diligent team from the water department. The discovery not only enriches our understanding of evolutionary history but also positions the site as a potential hub for fossil tourism. This article delves into the implications of the discovery and its significance.

Lazy bag

The discovery of an ancient phytosaur fossil in Rajasthan unveils vital insights into prehistoric life while potentially boosting fossil tourism in the region.

Main Body

Researchers in India have marked a significant milestone with the discovery of a fossilized remains believed to be from a crocodyliform species known as a phytosaur. Located in the western Indian state of Rajasthan, this fossil hails from the Jurassic era, estimated to be over 200 million years old, spanning about 1.5 to two metres in length. Unearthed at Megha village in the Jaisalmer district, the effort was led by Dr. Narayandas Inkhiya and his proficient team from the state’s water department.

Dr. Inkhiya expressed to the BBC the possibility that the site might harbor "many more hidden fossils" that could offer crucial and intriguing information concerning the evolutionary history of life on Earth. Remarkably, the find could amplify the site's attraction, drawing enthusiasts of fossil tourism, further integrating the educational and historical significance with economic prospects. CP Rajendran, a geoscience expert, elaborated on how the semi-aquatic phytosaur possibly evolved into the modern-day crocodiles.

The initial hint of this prehistoric marvel came when local villagers, while excavating a lake, stumbled upon unique formations on the ground resembling a large skeletal structure. These villagers showed prudence by notifying the authorities, leading to a calculated excavation that unveiled not only the phytosaur fossil but what seemed to be a fossilized egg, speculating a link to this ancient reptile.

VS Parihar, a top-tier paleontologist heading the research, explained to NDTV that the fossil depicts a medium-sized phytosaur, residing by rivers millions of years ago, probably subsisting on a diet of fish. The significance of such a specimen lies in its rarity; only fragments of phytosaur remains have been discovered globally, further signing this as a groundbreaking event in the realm of paleontology.

Positioned strategically within a geological entity known as the Lathi formation, Jaisalmer historically has been a fertile ground for dinosaurs and other prehistoric life forms during the Jurassic era. This locale, located between erstwhile flows of a river and the sea, presents a fertile promise for finding more fossils, which further excites the scientific community.

In preceding years, researchers, including Dr. Inkhiya, have previously unearthed a fossilized dinosaur egg, substantiating the area's rich paleontological potential. Additionally, a 2018 discovery by the Geological Survey of India team revealed fossils from what has been identified as the oldest herbivorous dinosaur.

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