Newly found prehistoric "giant rat" species named after princess
Summary
Researchers identified a previously unknown rodent species from two fossilized teeth found in southern Thailand. The animal lived about 33 to 35 million years ago, weighed an estimated 30 kilograms, and was named Yakamys sirindhornae in honor of Princess Sirindhorn.Key Facts
- The fossils were found in 2004 at a coal mine in Krabi province.
- Researchers from Thailand, France, and Canada identified the species through detailed analysis of a molar and an incisor.
- The study was published in Scientific Reports.
- The rodent belonged to the extinct Ischyromyidae family, an early major group of rodents.
- The researchers estimated that it weighed around 30 kilograms, or 66 pounds.
- Only two teeth have been found, so its appearance, diet, and behavior are unknown.
- The Krabi basin has also yielded fossils of ancient primates, carnivores, and hoofed mammals.
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