Ancient pachyderm unearthed

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.