A massive new dinosaur species, Nagatitan chaiyaphumensis, has been discovered in Thailand, making it the largest ever found in Southeast Asia. This long-necked sauropod lived 100–120 million years ago, measured nearly 27 meters (89 feet), and weighed about 27 metric tons.
🦕 Key Facts About the Discovery
- Species name: Nagatitan chaiyaphumensis
- Nickname: “The Last Titan”
- Location: Chaiyaphum province, northeastern Thailand
- Size: ~27 meters (89 feet) long, ~27 metric tons (~60,000 pounds)
- Bones found: Spine, ribs, pelvis, and a front leg bone measuring 1.78 meters (~6 feet)
- Age: Early Cretaceous period (100–120 million years ago)
- Significance: Largest dinosaur ever discovered in Southeast Asia; 14th species named in Thailand
🌍 Why It Matters
Regional importance: Thailand is becoming a hotspot for paleontological discoveries, with diverse dinosaur species identified in recent decades.
Scientific impact: The fossils were found in Thailand’s youngest dinosaur-bearing rock formation, suggesting this may be the last giant sauropod discovered in the region.
Cultural connection: The name “Naga” refers to a mythological serpent in Thai and Southeast Asian folklore, while “Titan” references Greek giants. “Chaiyaphumensis” honors the province where the fossils were found.
📊 Comparison With Other Dinosaurs
| Dinosaur | Length (m) | Weight (tons) | Region |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nagatitan chaiyaphumensis | ~27 m | ~27 t | Thailand (SE Asia) |
| Diplodocus | ~25 m | ~15 t | North America |
| Brontosaurus | ~22 m | ~15–17 t | North America |
| Patagotitan | ~37 m | ~60 t | South America |
| Tyrannosaurus rex | ~12 m | ~9–15 t | North America |
Source
CNN – Link
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