Fossil discovery reveals 30kg giant rat in ancient Thailand
Scientists have identified a new species of giant rodent, Yakamys sirindhornae, which inhabited southern Thailand approximately 33 to 35 million years ago.
According to a report by Khaosod English, researchers have discovered fossilized molars and incisors in Krabi that belong to a previously unknown species of giant rodent. Named Yakamys sirindhornae, this creature is estimated to have weighed around 30 kilograms and roamed the region during the Eocene epoch, roughly 33 to 35 million years ago. This significant find provides new insights into the evolutionary history of rodents in Southeast Asia. For residents and visitors interested in Thailand's natural history, this discovery highlights the prehistoric biodiversity of the southern provinces. While the fossils offer a glimpse into the distant past, scientists continue to analyze the sediment layers where the remains were found to better understand the environmental conditions of that era. Further research is expected to clarify how such large rodents evolved and interacted with their prehistoric ecosystem. As of now, the discovery serves as a reminder of the rich paleontological heritage hidden within Thailand's landscape.
