New Long-Necked Dinosaur Species Discovered in Thailand

Paleontologists in Thailand discovered a new species of long-necked dinosaur, Uragasaurus kalasinensis, based on a unique vertebra found in the Kalasin province. The dinosaur belongs to the Mamenchisauridae family of sauropods, previously known primarily from China. This finding suggests these Jurassic-period dinosaurs were more widespread than previously thought.

The single vertebra exhibits a Y-shaped structure and contains small air-filled chambers, reducing its weight and aiding in supporting a long neck. Researchers used CT scans to analyze the bone’s internal structure, confirming the presence of these air pockets similar to those found in modern birds.

U. kalasinensis expands the known geographic range of Mamenchisauridae dinosaurs and could offer insight into sauropod diversity during the late Jurassic to early Cretaceous transition. The discovery site also yielded remains of other vertebrates, including sharks, turtles, and other dinosaurs.