A team of researchers from IIT-Roorkee discovered the fossil of a colossal snake that lived on Earth 47 million years ago in Gandhi Nagar's lignite mines. The snake, named 'Vasuki Indicus', is believed to be the largest ever to exist, surpassing the previous record holder, Colombian Titanoboa. The fossil, including 27 vertebrae, indicates that the snake could have weighed a ton and stretched up to 49 feet, making it one of the heaviest and longest snakes in history. Scientists speculate that this giant serpent may have been a gentle giant, resting its head on its coiled body or moving slowly through the swamp.
Discovery of Vasuki Indicus: A Colossal Fossil from India's Past
Background
In February 2023, a groundbreaking discovery was made in India's Gujarat state. A team of researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)-Roorkee unearthed the fossil of a colossal snake that roamed the Earth millions of years ago. Named "Vasuki Indicus" after the mythological serpent, this fossil represents the largest snake ever discovered.
Fossil Discovery
The fossil was found in lignite mines near Gandhi Nagar. It consists of 27 vertebrae, providing crucial insights into the snake's massive size. Analysis of the vertebrae suggests that Vasuki Indicus could have weighed up to a ton and reached an astonishing length of 49 feet. This dwarfs the previous record holder, the Titanoboa, which lived 60 million years ago and measured 42.7 feet in length.
Significance
The discovery of Vasuki Indicus is a significant scientific breakthrough. It adds a new chapter to the understanding of prehistoric life and sheds light on the evolution and diversity of snakes. The colossal size of this ancient reptile challenges previous assumptions about the size limits of modern snakes.
FAQs
1. What is the history of snake discoveries in India?
India has a rich history of snake fossil discoveries. In 1972, a fragment of a giant snake was found in the Lameta Formation in the central part of the country. This specimen, named Titanophis, is believed to have been even larger than Vasuki Indicus, reaching lengths of up to 60 feet.
2. How did Vasuki Indicus live?
Vasuki Indicus is believed to have lived in a subtropical environment, similar to present-day Florida. It was likely a semi-aquatic predator, preying on large mammals and amphibians.
3. Why is Vasuki Indicus considered a gentle giant?
The arrangement of the vertebrae in the fossil suggests that Vasuki Indicus may have been a relatively clumsy and slow-moving snake. It is hypothesized that it spent much of its time resting its head on its coiled body, similar to modern-day pythons.
4. What are the future research plans for Vasuki Indicus?
Researchers plan to conduct further studies on the fossil to determine the exact species and its relationship to other ancient and modern snakes. They will also investigate the environment in which it lived, shedding light on the biodiversity of the past.
5. How does the discovery of Vasuki Indicus impact our understanding of evolution?
The discovery challenges previous theories about the maximum size of snakes. It suggests that there may have been a selective pressure for gigantism in certain environments, leading to the evolution of colossal snakes like Vasuki Indicus.
On April 2, the world recognizes World Autism Awareness Day, bringing attention to the challenges faced by individuals with autism. The term "autism" was first introduced in 1911 and has been further defined and understood since then. As a wide range of developmental disorders, each diagnosis is unique, making it important to understand and support those on the spectrum. This day aims to raise awareness and promote understanding and support for individuals and their families.
In light of World Autism Awareness Day, experts, including a paediatric neurologist and a RCI-certified special educator, discuss the role of technology in assisting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). They highlight the benefits of alternative communication devices, which can aid non-verbal children in expressing their emotions effectively. Furthermore, they share insights on the various technological tools and interventions that can enhance the learning and development of children with ASD.
With a wide range of publications, eBooks, and research articles, Open Access Government is a pioneering platform that shares relevant and comprehensive information on health, workplace, digital transformation, and other critical topics. As a Crossref Sponsored Member, the platform connects research content across the globe, strengthening the research communication network. With an impressive membership of over 20,000 organizations from 160 countries and support for billions of API queries, Crossref plays a significant role in promoting a collaborative and innovative research environment.
The use of ketamine as a treatment for depression has gained attention after Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk revealed that he uses the drug every other week. Derived from PCP, ketamine is a Schedule X drug that is regulated and monitored in India by prescribing doctors. While it has shown promise in managing mental health conditions, the euphoric effects of ketamine can lead to addiction if not supervised by a doctor.
A personal journey of discovering the true meaning of meditation leads to the realization of the role of Pranayama in enhancing the practice. Pranayama not only calms the mind and reduces thoughts, but also acts as a bridge between universal energy and ourselves, leading to a deeper connection in meditation. However, the importance of proper breath regulation and caution during kumbhaka is emphasized to avoid potential dangers and achieve optimal results in meditation.
Medindia, a leading health information website, has launched a new feature called Health Watch which aims to provide accurate and informative content on various health-related topics. The feature will include articles, e-books and consultations with qualified physicians, making it a one-stop destination for medical information. This initiative by Medindia is set to revolutionize the way people access and use health-related information, ensuring they have access to reliable and trustworthy sources for their health needs.
In the fight against tuberculosis, preventing the disease is just as important as treating it. According to Dr. Shweta Bansal of Artemis Hospitals, improving your immune system through diet, air quality, hygiene, and managing stress can significantly reduce your risk of TB. Her advice to avoid processed foods, maintain good hygiene, and get enough rest and relaxation serves as a crucial reminder to prioritize our overall health in preventing diseases like tuberculosis.
Every year, March 24 is observed around the world as World Tuberculosis Day to raise awareness about the ongoing fight against TB. This year's theme is "Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver," highlighting the crucial role of sustained commitment, financial investment, and effective interventions in eradicating this deadly disease. This day holds historical significance, dating back to 1882 when Dr. Robert Koch discovered the bacterium responsible for TB. Join India and the rest of the world in commemorating this day and working towards a TB-free future.
On World Tuberculosis Day 2025, learn about the symptoms of TB and how you can reduce your risk. The theme for this year's World TB Day is "Yes! We Can End TB", highlighting the collective effort needed to eliminate this disease. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has pledged to make India TB-free by 2025, ahead of the global target.
As we celebrate World Water Day, it's important to understand the importance of staying hydrated for our overall health. While the commonly known advice is to drink eight glasses of water a day, it actually varies for each individual. According to experts, women should drink 11.5 cups of water and men should drink 15.5 cups a day. However, factors such as diet and lifestyle also play a role in determining one's daily water intake. So let's decode the confusion and understand our specific water needs.