Vasuki indicus
Why in news?
Recently, a team of scientists from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee unearthed Vasuki indicus, a 47-million-year-old prehistoric snake in Gujarat’s Kutch district.
Relevance:
GS-03 (Science and technology- species)
What is Vasuki indicus?
- Vasuki is an extinct genus of madtsoiid snake from the Middle Eocene Naredi Formation of India.
- According to the Hindu mythology, Vasuki indicus also refers to the mythical snake often depicted around the neck of Lord Shiva.
- The fossil of the snake was discovered in a lignite mine in Gujarat, India.
- Size: It is estimated that the snake was about 36 and 50 feet long and weighed over one tonne, making it one of the largest snakes ever known.
- Scientific Significance:
- The discovery of Vasuki Indicus provides valuable insights into the evolution and size of prehistoric reptiles and their ancient ecosystems. It also sheds light on the history of the Indian subcontinent and its connection with other regions
Prelims Practice Question
Q. With reference to Vasuki indicus, recently in news, consider the following statements:
- It is an extinct species of snake discovered in Gujarat.
- It belonged to the Madtsoiidae family and lived during the Middle Eocene period.
- It is the largest living snake in the world today.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 and 2 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
Answer: A. 1 and 2 only
