Paleontologists and geologists are working intensively to extract a fossil of a newly discovered plant-eating dinosaur in Phu Wiang, Khon Kaen Province. Researchers are particularly excited about the possibility that the fossil may represent a previously unidentified species, potentially contributing to a deeper understanding of Earth’s history from 130 million years ago.
Dr. Varavudh Suteethorn, a retired geologist and paleontologist, is among those leading the excavation. Known for discovering Thailand’s first large carnivorous dinosaur, Siamosaurus suteethorni, in the same region, he highlighted the challenges of this particular dig, describing it as “the hardest excavation site I’ve ever encountered.”
Phu Wiang has historically been a treasure trove of dinosaur fossils. Notably, it is the site where the long-necked herbivorous dinosaur Phuwiangosaurus sirindhornae, also known as the “Giant Reptile of Phu Wiang,” was discovered by a Thai-French paleontology team. The ongoing excavation could further enhance the significance of this region in the study of prehistoric life.