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Giant rat fossil weighing 30kg discovered in Krabi province

Paleontologists in southern Thailand have uncovered fossil remains of an enormous prehistoric rodent, significantly larger than any modern rat species. The discovery in Krabi province provides new insights into ancient fauna that inhabited the region millions of years ago.

LSN Thailand · 4 November 2026

The fossil, estimated to weigh approximately 30 kilograms, represents an exceptionally large specimen from the rodent family and marks a notable paleontological find for the region. The discovery was made during excavation work in Krabi, one of Thailand's southernmost provinces known for its complex geological formations and rich fossil deposits.

Researchers studying the remains indicate the creature lived during a prehistoric period when Thailand's landscape and climate differed markedly from today. The size of the specimen suggests a thriving population of megafauna existed in Southeast Asia during this epoch, alongside other large animal species that have since become extinct.

The fossil has been catalogued for further scientific analysis, with specialists examining bone structure, teeth patterns, and other anatomical features to determine the exact species classification and age of the specimen. Such discoveries contribute valuable data to understanding the evolutionary history of rodents and the ecological conditions of ancient Thailand.

Krabi's geological significance continues to yield important paleontological findings, attracting researchers interested in documenting prehistoric life across the Southeast Asian region. The province remains an active site for fossil recovery and study.