Scientists reveal 280-million-year-old fossil may have been partly forged

Scientists have made a startling discovery regarding a 280-million-year-old fossil, Tridentinosaurus antiquus, which has long been thought to be an important specimen for understanding the evolution of early reptiles. The fossil, found in the Italian Alps in 1931, was believed to belong to the reptile group Protorosauria. However, a recent study published in the journal Palaeontology suggests that this fossil may have been partly forged.

The revelation comes after researchers conducted a microscopic analysis of the fossil, revealing that the texture and composition of the material did not match genuine fossilized soft tissues. They also used ultraviolet (UV) photography to determine that the entire specimen had been treated with some form of coating material.

The study's findings indicate that the body outline of the fossil was artificially created to enhance its appearance, misleading previous researchers. Despite being celebrated and discussed in articles and books, the fossilized skin has never been thoroughly examined.


"While the body outline may have been forged, the bones of the hindlimbs, particularly the femurs, appear to be genuine, although poorly preserved," the researchers noted. Additionally, the presence of small bony scales, called osteoderms, was discovered on what is believed to be the back of the animal.

The discovery raises questions about the accuracy of previous research conducted using this fossil. "The peculiar preservation of Tridentinosaurus had puzzled experts for decades. Now, it all makes sense. What was described as carbonized skin is just paint," said study co-author Professor Evelyn Kustatscher.

This research, involving contributors from the University of Padua, Museum of Nature South Tyrol, and the Museo delle Scienze in Trento, all based in Italy, highlights the importance of caution when using this specimen in future studies. The findings also underscore the need for thorough examination and scrutiny of fossil specimens to ensure their authenticity and accuracy in scientific research.