Researchers Unearth Rare 200-Million-Year-Old Phytosaur
Fossil in Indian Village

Rajasthan,
India, 26 Aug (ONA) — Researchers in India have uncovered the fossilized
remains of a rare Jurassic-era crocodile-like species in the western state of
Rajasthan.

The
fossil, identified as a phytosaur, measures between 1.5 and two meters and is
estimated to be over 200 million years old. It was discovered in Megha village,
Jaisalmer district, by hydrogeologist Dr. Narayandas Inkhiya and his team
during a lake excavation initiated after local residents noticed unusual
skeletal formations.

According
to geoscientist CP Rajendran, the semi-aquatic phytosaur inhabited both land
and river environments and is an evolutionary precursor to modern crocodiles.
The team also recovered what appears to be a fossilized egg, possibly belonging
to the same species. Senior paleontologist VS Parihar described the find as a
medium-sized phytosaur that likely fed on fish.

The
discovery site, situated within the dinosaur-rich Lathi formation, is believed
to hold further significant fossils.

Dr.
Inkhiya, who previously discovered a dinosaur egg in the region in 2023,
emphasized the area’s potential for both scientific study and fossil tourism.
This finding follows earlier significant paleontological work, including the
unearthing of India’s oldest known herbivorous dinosaur by the Geological
Survey of India in 2018.

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Ends/Khalid