Remains of a giant rodent weighing around 30 kg discovered in Thailand
Scientists have described a previously unknown species of ancient rodent, Yakamys sirindhornae, which inhabited the territory of modern-day Thailand 33–35 million years ago.
The study was published in the journal Scientific Reports.
The discovery was based on two fossilized teeth—a molar and an incisor—found in a coal mine in Krabi Province. Based on their size, researchers estimated the animal's weight at approximately 30 kg. However, the calculations provide a wide range, so the exact weight remains unknown.
The species was named in honor of Thai Princess Sirindhorn. The finding suggests that large rodents appeared significantly earlier than previously believed. Scientists currently cannot reliably reconstruct the animal's appearance or lifestyle based on just two teeth.
