Researchers discover a new gigantic dinosaur species in Thailand
ABC News - Breaking News, Latest News and Videos • • general
Key Points:
- Scientists have identified Nagatitan chaiyaphumensis as the largest long-necked, herbivorous dinosaur ever found in Southeast Asia, discovered in Thailand's Chaiyaphum province.
- The dinosaur, estimated to have weighed around 27 tons, lived 100 to 120 million years ago during the Cretaceous period and is nicknamed "the last titan" of Thailand.
- Fossils were first found by locals in 2016, with excavation continuing until funding ran out in 2020; renewed support from the National Geographic Society in 2023 enabled researchers to complete the study.
- This discovery highlights the relatively recent development of paleontology in Thailand, which has been studying dinosaurs for about 40 years, and aims to boost public interest and awareness in the field.
- The name Nagatitan chaiyaphumensis reflects cultural ties, combining the mythological serpent Naga from Southeast Asia and the Greek titan giants, linking the dinosaur to local heritage.