Researchers in Thailand have uncovered the fossil of a previously unknown carnivorous dinosaur believed to be more than 130 million years old, making it the oldest dinosaur fossil ever discovered in Chaiyaphum Province.
The fossil was found at Khao Sam Phan Ta Mountain in Ban Khwao District and is estimated to be around 20 million years older than the herbivorous dinosaur Nakha Titan Chaiyaphumensis, which was previously discovered in the same province.
The discovery began when 53-year-old local resident Yodsanya Pitabut spotted unusual fossil fragments while an excavator was levelling land for the construction of a crematorium. He later handed the bones over to experts for further examination.
A research team from the Palaeontological Research and Education Center at Mahasarakham University, together with geologists from the Khon Kaen Dinosaur Research Center and local authorities, launched an excavation at the site.
So far, researchers have recovered more than 100 fossil specimens, including vertebrae, leg bones, ankle joints, foot bones and toe bones. Fossilised shark fin remains were also found, suggesting the area may once have been part of an ancient ecosystem.
Scientists believe the fossils belong to a previously unidentified carnivorous dinosaur that lived over 130 million years ago, making it significantly older than Nakha Titan Chaiyaphumensis, which roamed the region around 110 to 115 million years ago.
The newly discovered fossils are currently undergoing detailed analysis, while excavations continue in search of more remains preserved in the surrounding limestone.
The find marks the fourth dinosaur discovery in Chaiyaphum Province and the oldest ever recorded there. Once research is completed, local authorities and the community plan to develop the site into a palaeontological research, education and tourism attraction.
