This Indian snake species is one of the longest to have ever lived

Named after the mythical serpent Vasuki from Hindu mythology, it belonged to the now-extinct Madtsoiidae family, a group of large, non-venomous constrictor snakes.

By: Lifestyle Desk

New Delhi | Updated: March 19, 2025 07:21 PM IST

2 min read

Vasuki indicus, a newly discovered prehistoric snake from India, is one of the longest ever recorded. Learn about its size, habitat, and significance in paleontology.

Vasuki indicus, a prehistoric snake from India, is one of the longest ever recorded. Learn about its size, habitat, and significance in paleontology. (Source: Wikimedia Commons)

In 2024, India made a groundbreaking advancement in palaeontology with Vasuki indicus, an ancient snake species that ranks among the longest to have ever lived. Estimated to have reached an astonishing length of 15 meters (49 feet), this prehistoric giant existed around 47 million years ago during the Eocene epoch.

The fossil remains were first unearthed in Gujarat in 2004, marking a significant find in understanding snake evolution and their ancient habitats. However, the species was only identified and described as a new genus in 2024.

Named after the mythical serpent Vasuki from Hindu mythology, Vasuki indicus belonged to the now-extinct Madtsoiidae family, a group of large, non-venomous constrictor snakes. This discovery places it among the longest known snake species, rivaling Titanoboa, which grew up to 42 feet and lived around 60 million years ago in South America.

The fossils of Vasuki indicus provide crucial insights into intercontinental snake dispersal patterns. According to a study published in Scientific Reports, its skeletal structure suggests that it was a slow-moving ambush predator, similar to modern pythons and anacondas. However, its sheer size indicates it had few natural predators in its ecosystem.

This discovery places it among the longest known snake species, rivaling Titanoboa, which grew up to 42 feet and lived around 60 million years ago in South America (Source: Freepik)

What makes Vasuki Indicus special?

Size: Estimated to be 49 feet (15 meters) long, making it one of the largest snakes ever discovered.
Era: Lived around 47 million years ago in what is now India.
Habitat: Thrived in a warm, humid environment, possibly near water bodies, similar to where modern pythons and anacondas are found.
Significance: Highlights the rich prehistoric biodiversity of the Indian subcontinent and strengthens the theory of snake dispersal across ancient landmasses.

This discovery underscores India’s importance in prehistoric research, adding to the country’s growing list of significant fossil finds. Scientists continue to analyse Vasuki indicus to understand its ecological role and evolutionary significance in greater detail.

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