Vasuki Indicus is a newly discovered species of prehistoric snake, characterized by its impressive size. Fossils of this remarkable creature were unearthed in Kutch, Gujarat, India. This species is notable for measuring between 10 and 15 meters in length, making it one of the largest snakes ever identified.
This fascinating snake lived approximately 47 million years ago during the Middle Eocene epoch. This period was crucial for the evolution of various species, including reptiles.
The fossils of Vasuki Indicus were discovered at the Panandhro Lignite Mine in Kutch. Researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee led this significant paleontological expedition, uncovering vital evidence of ancient life.
The discovery of Vasuki Indicus offers critical insights into the evolutionary history of snakes in India. It illustrates how snakes adapted to diverse climates over millions of years. Furthermore, it suggests that periods of high temperatures might have played a role in the development of their large sizes.
In size, Vasuki Indicus is comparable to Titanoboa, which is recognized as the largest known snake species, also measuring around 15 meters. Both species display robust builds, indicative of their roles as powerful predators in their respective ecosystems.
The discovery of Vasuki Indicus is significant for multiple reasons. It enhances our understanding of ancient ecosystems in India, contributing to the broader knowledge of snake evolution on a global scale. This research helps scientists comprehend the ecological conditions and factors that influenced reptile evolution during the Eocene era.
Q1. What is the significance of the name Vasuki Indicus?
Answer: The name Vasuki Indicus signifies a prehistoric snake discovered in India, highlighting its cultural and scientific importance in understanding ancient reptiles.
Q2. How were the fossils of Vasuki Indicus preserved?
Answer: The fossils were preserved in sedimentary layers at the Panandhro Lignite Mine, providing a unique glimpse into the Middle Eocene epoch's ecosystem.
Q3. What ecological factors influenced the size of Vasuki Indicus?
Answer: High temperatures during the Eocene epoch likely contributed to the large sizes of snakes like Vasuki Indicus, allowing them to thrive as dominant predators.
Q4. How does Vasuki Indicus contribute to understanding snake evolution?
Answer: The discovery of Vasuki Indicus sheds light on the evolutionary adaptations of snakes, particularly in response to climatic changes over millions of years.
Q5. What role did the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee play in this discovery?
Answer: Researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee were instrumental in uncovering the fossils of Vasuki Indicus, contributing to significant paleontological research.
Question 1: What is Vasuki Indicus known for?
A) Its small size
B) Its large size as a prehistoric snake
C) Its diet
D) Its habitat
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: During which epoch did Vasuki Indicus live?
A) Jurassic
B) Cretaceous
C) Middle Eocene
D) Triassic
Correct Answer: C
Question 3: Where were the fossils of Vasuki Indicus discovered?
A) Kutch, Gujarat
B) Rajasthan
C) Tamil Nadu
D) Madhya Pradesh
Correct Answer: A
Question 4: Which other prehistoric snake is comparable in size to Vasuki Indicus?
A) Anaconda
B) Titanoboa
C) King Cobra
D) Pythons
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: What aspect of Vasuki Indicus is crucial for understanding ancient ecosystems?
A) Its color
B) Its size
C) Its role as a predator
D) Its habitat
Correct Answer: C
Question 6: What institution was involved in the research of Vasuki Indicus?
A) IIT Delhi
B) IIT Bombay
C) IIT Roorkee
D) IISc Bangalore
Correct Answer: C
Question 7: Why is the discovery of Vasuki Indicus important for paleontology?
A) It is not important
B) It provides insights into snake evolution
C) It focuses on modern snakes
D) It has no ecological significance
Correct Answer: B
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