Titanosaurian Fossil Discovery in Meghalaya: A First for Northeast India

Discovery of Titanosaurian Fossils in Meghalaya

For the first time in Northeast India, fossilized teeth of Titanosaurian sauropods have been discovered in the South West Khasi Hills of Meghalaya. This remarkable finding, made by the Palaeontology Division of the Geological Survey of India (GSI), significantly enriches the paleontological record of the region.

Key Details of the Discovery

• Location and Timing: The teeth were unearthed in Mawphuli village near Ranikor. Although the fossils were discovered in January of this year, the announcement was delayed to ensure that all necessary procedures were completed.
• Geological Context: These teeth originate from the Mahadek Formation, which dates back to the Upper Cretaceous period, specifically the Maastrichtian stage (72.1 million to 66 million years ago).
• About the Teeth: Two teeth were found, each differing in size and color. One tooth is smaller, chocolate brown on the crown with a narrow, ferrous-stained pulp cavity, while the larger tooth is yellowish with a distinct crown-root transition and a D-shaped cross-section.

Significance of the Discovery

• This find offers insights into the diversity and distribution of Titanosaurian sauropods in India during the late Cretaceous period.
• The discovery helps fill a gap in the stratigraphical record of these dinosaurs, enhancing our understanding of their geographical spread during prehistoric times.

Global Context

Similar Titanosaurian teeth have been identified in formations across Argentina, Morocco, Uzbekistan, and Australia, highlighting the widespread nature of these dinosaurs during the late Cretaceous.

This discovery not only emphasizes the rich paleontological heritage of Meghalaya but also sets the stage for further explorations that could yield additional insights into the ancient life forms that once inhabited this region.