50-foot ancient snake discovered in India may be one of the largest ever
A newly discovered prehistoric snake species, Vasuki indicus, lived around 47 million years ago in what is now Gujarat, India. Fossilized vertebrae suggest it measured between 11 and 15 meters long, placing it among the largest snakes ever known. The snake likely ambushed prey like modern anacondas and belonged to the extinct madtsoiidae family.
- ▪Vasuki indicus lived approximately 47 million years ago during the Middle Eocene period.
- ▪The fossil remains, including 27 vertebrae, were found in the Panandhro Lignite Mine in Gujarat, India.
- ▪Scientists estimate the snake's length at 10.9 to 15.2 meters, comparable to the legendary Titanoboa.
- ▪Vasuki indicus belongs to the madtsoiidae family, a group of snakes that existed from the Late Cretaceous to the Late Pleistocene.
- ▪The species name honors the mythical serpent Vasuki associated with the Hindu deity Shiva and the country of India.
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| Publication time | Wed, 29 Apr 2026 05:13:03 EDT |
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Science News from research organizations 50-foot ancient snake discovered in India may be one of the largest ever Date: April 29, 2026 Source: Scientific Reports Summary: A massive prehistoric snake discovered in India may rank among the largest ever to slither across Earth. Named Vasuki indicus, this ancient giant lived around 47 million years ago and is estimated to have stretched an astonishing 11 to 15 meters long—rivaling the legendary Titanoboa. Fossilized vertebrae unearthed from a lignite mine in Gujarat reveal a thick-bodied, powerful snake likely built for slow, stealthy ambush attacks, similar to modern anacondas.
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