Where was the Ajimu giant salamander discovered?

It was discovered in the Ajimu region of Usa City, Oita Prefecture, from strata dating back approximately 3.5 million years.

Why was it classified as a new species?

Because it possesses a combination of morphological characteristics not seen in other Cryptobranchidae.

Exhibition of Fossilized Giant Salamander Reported as New Genus and Species

Key facts

Exhibition of Fossilized Giant Salamander Reported as New Genus and Species
Kyoto University research group has named a giant salamander fossil discovered in Oita Prefecture as a new genus and species, 'Limnospondylus ajimuensis.' The fossil will be exhibited at the Lake Biwa Museum from June 30 to August 31.
Source: PR TIMES
Date: Fri Jun 12 2026 10:00:03 GMT+0900 (Japan Standard Time)

Direct answer

Kyoto University research group has named a giant salamander fossil discovered in Oita Prefecture as a new genus and species, 'Limnospondylus ajimuensis.' The fossil will be exhibited at the Lake Biwa Museum from June 30 to August 31.

Citation: Exhibition of Fossilized Giant Salamander Reported as New Genus and Species (Fri Jun 12 2026 10:00:03 GMT+0900 (Japan Standard Time)), PR TIMES
Source: PR TIMES
Date: Fri Jun 12 2026 10:00:03 GMT+0900 (Japan Standard Time)

AI Summary (NQ-processed)

Kyoto University research group has named a giant salamander fossil discovered in Oita Prefecture as a new genus and species, 'Limnospondylus ajimuensis.' The fossil will be exhibited at the Lake Biwa Museum from June 30 to August 31.

AI Analysis

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where was the Ajimu giant salamander discovered?: A: It was discovered in the Ajimu region of Usa City, Oita Prefecture, from strata dating back approximately 3.5 million years.
Q: How long is the exhibition?: A: It runs until August 31, 2026.
Q: Why was it classified as a new species?: A: Because it possesses a combination of morphological characteristics not seen in other Cryptobranchidae.