Unveiling History: 115 Million-Year-Old Shark Fossil Discovered in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
Explore the groundbreaking discovery of India's first Early Cretaceous shark fossil, estimated to be 115 million years old, in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. Learn about the team of researchers, the species identified, and the historical significance of this find.
Introduction:
In a remarkable archaeological breakthrough, a team of researchers has unearthed India's first Early Cretaceous shark fossil, dating back approximately 115 million years, in the Jaisalmer region of Rajasthan. This monumental discovery, detailed in the November 2023 publication of 'Historical Biology, An International Journal of Palaeobiology,' is titled 'First Early Cretaceous Shark from India.'
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| 115 million year old shark fossil found in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan |
The Research Team and Publication
Collaborative Efforts:
The team behind this historic discovery includes Triparna Ghosh from the Geological Survey of India (GSI) in Jaipur, Professor Sunil Bajpai from the Department of Earth Sciences at IIT Roorkee, Krishna Kumar from GSI Kolkata, Abhyanand Singh Maurya from IIT, and Debashish Bhattacharya from GSI Kolkata.
Scientific Publication:
Their findings, shedding light on the Early Cretaceous period's transformative impact on shark evolution, were presented in the research paper published in 'Historical Biology.' This publication marks a significant contribution to the field of palaeobiology.
Insights into Early Cretaceous Sharks
Species Diversity:
The researchers identified five lamniform genera – Cretalamna, Dwardius, Leptostyrax, Squalicorax, and Eostriatolamia – from isolated teeth near Kanoi village in Jaisalmer. These species, characterized by serrated teeth, belonged to the category of large, predatory sharks that thrived during the Cretaceous period.
Period of Transformation:
The Early Cretaceous era witnessed substantial changes in shark species, with new ones evolving and old ones vanishing. The fossilized teeth found in Jaisalmer offer valuable insights into the diversity and nature of these ancient marine creatures.
The Age and Preservation of Fossils
Astonishing Antiquity:
The fossils discovered are an astounding 115 million years old, providing a rare glimpse into the marine life of the Early Cretaceous period. These fossils, particularly the teeth, are now housed in the Palaeontology Division of the Geological Survey of India (GSI), Western Region, Jaipur.
Limited Knowledge:
The significance of this find is heightened by the scarcity of information about Early Cretaceous vertebrates in India. The collection serves as a crucial addition to our understanding of prehistoric marine ecosystems.
Jaisalmer's Rich Palaeontological Heritage
Previous Discoveries:
This isn't the first time Jaisalmer has revealed secrets of the past. The Geological Survey of India previously uncovered whale fossils and shark teeth from the middle Eocene (Lutecian) era, approximately 41.2 to 47.2 million years old.
Diverse Fossil Finds:
In addition to sharks, the region has yielded fossils of 180 million-year-old oak (akaal) wood, now displayed in the fossil museum located 20 kilometers from Jaisalmer city.
FAQs
Q: What is the significance of the discovery in Jaisalmer? A: The discovery in Jaisalmer includes India's first Early Cretaceous shark fossil, offering insights into marine life 115 million years ago.
Q: Which lamniform genera were identified in the findings? A: Cretalamna, Dwardius, Leptostyrax, Squalicorax, and Eostriatolamia were identified from isolated teeth.
Q: Where are the fossils currently housed? A: The fossils, particularly the teeth, are preserved in the Palaeontology Division of the Geological Survey of India (GSI), Western Region, Jaipur.
Q: What previous fossil discoveries have been made in Jaisalmer? A: Jaisalmer has revealed whale fossils, shark teeth from the middle Eocene era, and 180 million-year-old oak wood fossils.
Q: How old are the fossils found in Jaisalmer? A: The discovered shark fossils are approximately 115 million years old.
Q: What is the significance of the title 'First Early Cretaceous Shark from India'? A: The title marks the historical importance of this discovery as the first of its kind in India.
Conclusion:
The unearthing of a 115 million-year-old shark fossil in Jaisalmer is a testament to the rich palaeontological heritage of the region. This discovery not only contributes to our understanding of Early Cretaceous marine life but also underscores the importance of continued exploration and preservation of India's fossil treasures.
