Bangkok: Thai researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery with the identification of a 'Pterosaur' fossil, marking the first of its kind found in both Thailand and Southeast Asia. Unearthed at the Phra Prang site in Sa Kaeo Province, this fossil represents a new species from the early Cretaceous period, approximately 130 million years old. According to Thai News Agency, Dr. Sita Manitkul, the leading researcher behind this significant find, detailed that the fossilized remains included the tip of the upper jaw and five teeth. These were excavated from the Sao Khua Formation, dating back to the early Cretaceous period. The Phra Prong Reservoir in Tambon Watthana Nakhon, Amphoe Watthana Nakhon, Sa Kaeo Province, known as the first vertebrate fossil site in Thailand's eastern region, has been a point of interest since the initial fossil discovery in 2002. This discovery holds substantial value as Pterosaurs represent the earliest flying reptiles, distinct in their evolutionary path from birds. Though not classified as dinosaurs, Pterosaurs are noted for their ability to fly, varying vastly in size. The discovery of the skull fragments, particularly the jaw, provides crucial data for species classification and evolutionary study of creatures from that era. The newly identified species, 'Garudapterus buffetauti', has been named in honor of Dr. Eric Buffetaut, a French paleontologist with notable contributions to fossil research in Thailand. The name 'Garuda', drawing from a legendary Asian creature, signifies the formidable flying capabilities of this ancient reptile. The Department of Mineral Resources, the primary body responsible for fossil research, highlighted the significance of the Phra Prang site in global historical revelations. They emphasized that all fossils are national assets, safeguarded by the Fossil Protection Act of 2008, which aims to preserve essential paleontological and geological information for future educational purposes. Plans are underway to exhibit the 'Garudapterus bufoti' fossil in the Geology and Paleontology Museum, providing the public with an opportunity to explore the history of ancient creatures that soared over what is now Thai territory more than a century ago.
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