200-Million-Year-Old Crocodile Ancestor Unearthed in Rajasthan’s Jurassic Fossil Site

By Jerry Williams

JAISALMER, INDIA —

Researchers in western India have uncovered the fossilised remains of a 200-million-year-old phytosaur, a rare crocodile-like reptile that predates modern species.

The discovery occurred in Megha village, located in Rajasthan’s Jaisalmer district, during a routine lake excavation. Villagers noticed bone-like structures and alerted authorities, prompting a scientific investigation.

Soon after, Dr Narayandas Inkhiya, a senior hydrogeologist with the state’s water department, led a team to the site. They confirmed the presence of a 1.5 to 2-metre-long phytosaur fossil.

Importantly, this species lived during the Jurassic period and thrived near rivers, according to paleontologist VS Parihar. He noted the reptile likely fed on fish and adapted to both water and land.

In addition, the team found what appeared to be a fossilised egg beside the remains. Experts believe it could belong to the same species.

“This site holds tremendous promise,” Dr Inkhiya said. “We may find many more fossils here, which could help explain how reptiles evolved.”

Moreover, geoscientist CP Rajendran explained that phytosaurs later gave rise to modern crocodiles. Although similar finds have occurred globally, this specimen is considered unusually intact.

The area lies within the Lathi Formation, a region known for Jurassic-era discoveries. In fact, in 2023, Dr Inkhiya uncovered a possible dinosaur egg here. Five years earlier, scientists discovered one of the oldest herbivorous dinosaurs nearby.

Consequently, experts suggest the region could become a hotspot for fossil tourism and further evolutionary studies.