Scientists discover large dinosaur species in Thai excavation site

Scientists Discover New Species of Dinosaur in Thailand

A team of researchers has identified the remains of a massive new species of dinosaur in Thailand, which is estimated to have weighed as much as nine adult elephants. The discovery, published in the Scientific Reports journal, reveals that the dinosaur, named Nagatitan chaiyaphumensis, was a member of the sauropod lineage, characterized by its long neck and tail, small head, and four columnar legs.

According to the study, the dinosaur measured 27 meters in length and weighed approximately 27 tonnes. The fossil remains were found in what is now Thailand, with an estimated age range of 100-120 million years ago. The discovery is significant, as it is the largest known sauropod from Southeast Asia.

Researchers have reconstructed Nagatitan’s feeding habits based on other sauropods, suggesting that it was a bulk browser that consumed high volumes of vegetation requiring minimal chewing. The dinosaur’s unique features set it apart from previously discovered sauropods, leading to its classification as a new species.

Nagatitan chaiyaphumensis is notable for being one of the largest dinosaurs ever found in Southeast Asia. Its name references Naga, a serpent-like being in Asian religious traditions. A life-size reconstruction of the dinosaur is on display at Bangkok’s Thainosaur Museum. The discovery brings the total number of named dinosaurs from Thailand to 14.

Source: Al Jazeera