Ancient pachyderm unearthed

Indra Harsaputra, Nganjuk

Fossilized bones that researchers say belonged to an ancient elephant (Stegodon trigonocephalus) have been discovered in Nganjuk regency, East Java.

"The fossils are now being examined at a laboratory," Trowulan Ancient Heritage Preservation Agency head Jamiat Rukmono told The Jakarta Post on Wednesday.

Tests done on the teeth showed that the bones did not belong to a dinosaur, fossils of which have never been discovered in Indonesia, he said.

Mammoths evolved beginning from north Asia, the Malay Peninsula up to Timor island and Australia, Jamiat said.

This theory is supported by the discovery of an ancient stupa from the Kahuripan kingdom, which shows elephants being ridden by kings.

The fossils were discovered on Monday morning by Nasukan, a resident of Klurahan village in Ngronggot district, Nganjuk, as he dug a well on his land.

The farmer also dug up animal teeth measuring about nine centimeters in length, and a large number of animal skeletons.

He notified the village head about his discovery, who reported it to the local archeological agency.

Jamiat said the fossils, including teeth, vertebrae and rib bones, were being examined at a laboratory.

He said his office was running tests to gather more information and verify the origin of the fossils.

Archeologists will further excavate the site of the discovery, Jamiat said.

"It could be a massive find if other fossils like the skull or other bones are found, because the fossils we already have are intact.

"Many fossils of ancient elephants have been found in the lime in mountainous areas and along riverbanks, but they were not as complete as the recent discovery in Nganjuk," he said.

The head of the tourist office in Nganjuk, Abdul Ghafur, said he had asked the local police to secure the location of the discovery to prevent thieves from stealing fossils.