A spiked sensation: New York museum displays rare stegosaurus
In a significant announcement, the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) has introduced its newest exhibit, “Apex,” which is one of the most complete Stegosaurus fossils ever found. This extraordinary specimen, recognized for its unique stegosaur features including upright bony plates and a spiky tail, has generated great interest among both the public and scientists.
An Impressive Find
Apex is an impressive specimen, standing at 11 feet tall and measuring 20 feet in length, dating back to the Jurassic Period. The unveiling occurred in front of an audience of enthusiastic schoolchildren. Roger Benson, the museum’s dinosaur curator, highlighted the importance of this find, stating, “There’s a lot of buzz around this fossil because Stegosaurus is such an iconic dinosaur. As a herbivore, it had the ability to defend itself, featuring formidable spikes on its tail and plates running down its back.” Such adaptations were critical for withstanding threats from predators, including the formidable Allosaurus.
Historic Purchase
This remarkable Stegosaurus fossil was excavated in Colorado and achieved a record-breaking price of $44.6 million at a Sotheby’s auction in July. While the identity of the buyer remains confidential, they have generously loaned the specimen to the AMNH, recognized as one of the premier natural history museums in the United States. Benson reiterated the excitement surrounding the acquisition of such a well-preserved and large specimen of this renowned dinosaur, noting, “Everyone has their own favorite dinosaur, but Stegosaurus ranks among the top five. It’s difficult not to be thrilled about this.”
Valuable Scientific Contributions
Beyond its impressive stature, Apex offers significant scientific opportunities. With around 80% of its 320 bones intact, this specimen provides a rare chance to investigate the anatomy, growth patterns, and behavior of Stegosaurus. Notably, scientists are particularly interested in the fact that Apex is believed to have lived to an older age, which could yield valuable insights into the dinosaur’s metabolic processes and bone development.
Public Attraction
The exhibit of Apex is anticipated to attract a large influx of visitors to the AMNH. Initially, the fossil will be prominently displayed in a spacious atrium at the museum’s entrance, before being relocated to the established fossil halls later next year. This placement is strategically designed to ensure maximum visibility and accessibility for guests of all ages.
A Milestone in Paleontology
The introduction of Apex is a pivotal moment in the field of paleontological research. It serves as a reminder of the continuous discoveries that expand our understanding of ancient life forms. With its rich legacy and dedication to scientific inquiry, the AMNH remains at the forefront of enhancing our comprehension of the natural world. This significant acquisition not only adds to the museum’s impressive collection but also reinforces its role in educating the public about the complexities of prehistoric life.