New Giant Dinosaur Species Discovered in Thailand

Scientists have identified a previously unknown dinosaur species, named Nagatitan chaiyaphumensis, following the excavation of remains in northeast Thailand. According to a study published in the journal Scientific Reports, this long-necked herbivore is the largest dinosaur ever found in Southeast Asia. The creature measured approximately 27 meters in length and weighed an estimated 27 tonnes, equivalent to the mass of nine adult Asian elephants. It roamed the region between 100 and 120 million years ago. Lead researcher Thitiwoot Sethapanichsakul from University College London described it as the last titan, noting it was found in one of the youngest rock formations containing dinosaur fossils in Thailand before the area became a shallow sea. The initial discovery was made by locals a decade ago, with excavation completing in 2024. The species name combines references to Southeast Asian folklore, Greek mythology, and the Chaiyaphum province where it was unearthed. A life-size reconstruction of the skeleton is currently on display at the Thainosaur Museum in Bangkok, highlighting this significant paleontological find.