Preliminary observations suggest that the Jurrassic-era fossil was a phytosaur (tree lizard), an ancient reptile that lived in forest habitats near river ecosystems.
Geologists in Rajasthan’s Jaisalmer have uncovered rare vertebrate fossils from the Jurassic era, potentially including dinosaur remains, shedding new light on the region’s prehistoric ecology and biodiversity.
Preliminary analysis indicates the fossils belong to a phytosaur, a crocodile-like reptile that thrived in forested areas near river ecosystems. This marks the first discovery of phytosaur fossils from Jurassic rocks in India, a significant milestone in the country’s paleontological history.
The 210-million-year-old fossils, embedded in sedimentary rock formations, may also include remains of other prehistoric reptiles that inhabited the region.
The skeleton measures approximately 1.5–2 meters in length, suggesting a medium-sized creature, and notably, an egg was found on the left side of the specimen.
According to experts, the discovery is of immense scientific value, shedding light on the region’s prehistoric ecology and biodiversity. Preliminary studies suggest that the fossils could represent vertebrate remains rarely found in India, making the find both rare and globally relevant.
Narayan Das Inikhiya, Geologist and Senior Ground Water Scientist, Rajasthan, who is leading the study, said hat these fossils “provide vital clues about the Jurassic age environment of western Rajasthan. Detailed research and carbon dating will help confirm whether these are indeed dinosaur remains.”
Visuals from the site show large fossilised fragments being carefully examined and documented by researchers. Local authorities and the scientific community are now working on preserving the fossils and planning further excavation.
