Thai-Japanese Researchers Unearth Dinosaur Fossils Over 100 Million Years Old in Khon Kaen

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture courtesy of ThaiRath.

 

A team of Thai and Japanese researchers has unearthed significant dinosaur fossils, including the ribs of a plant-eating dinosaur and the teeth of a carnivorous species, dating back 100-110 million years. The discovery, made in Phon Phisai District, Khon Kaen, has sparked calls for government support to develop the site as a tourist attraction and educational centre.

 

The excavation began in the agricultural area of Rai Tama Farm, where researchers set up camp for their first day of work. The farm owner, Mrs. Naen Prommarin, 56, revealed that the site has a long history connected to fossil discoveries. She recounted how, in 2006, a local monk, Phra Achan Subin Khantitharo, initially discovered what he thought was an elephant vertebra while collecting rocks to build a temple structure. Upon further examination, the bones were believed to be dinosaur fossils, prompting a report to the Department of Mineral Resources.

 

In 2007, experts from the department confirmed the findings, which included ribs and teeth from a large, long-necked plant-eating dinosaur. Subsequent excavations continued until 2011, when financial constraints and other research priorities halted the work. However, the landowner later donated the site, known as Hin Rong, to the government to facilitate ongoing fossil research.

 

This December, the research effort was reignited under the leadership of Ms. Sasaon Khansupha, a senior geologist from Sirindhorn Museum, in collaboration with Japanese paleontologists. Early findings include fossilized ribs of a sauropod, a herbivorous dinosaur species, and teeth belonging to theropods, carnivorous dinosaurs. The fossils are estimated to be 100-110 million years old. Additionally, the team uncovered petrified wood dating back 700,000-900,000 years and freshwater mollusk fossils.

 

Ms. Sasaon emphasised the importance of government funding to support excavation and research. She stated that fossil studies not only contribute to scientific knowledge but also have the potential to transform the site into an educational centre and tourist attraction, benefiting local communities and inspiring the next generation of scientists.

 

The discovery underscores Thailand’s rich paleontological history and the need to preserve these invaluable assets for academic and cultural enrichment.

 

-- 2024-12-15