The American Museum of Natural History in New York has made a groundbreaking addition to its dinosaur collection with the unveiling of a nearly complete Stegosaurus skeleton, nicknamed “Apex.” This extraordinary fossil, estimated to be over 155 million years old, is considered one of the most significant dinosaur discoveries in recent years.
Apex, which was discovered in the Morrison Formation in Colorado, is an exceptional find due to its remarkable state of preservation. The fossil includes a nearly complete skeleton, with over 80% of the original bones still intact. This is a rare occurrence, as many dinosaur fossils are often found in fragmentary condition, making it difficult for scientists to reconstruct the animal’s appearance and behavior.
The Stegosaurus, a plant-eating dinosaur characterized by its distinctive row of plates running down its back, is a well-known and iconic species. However, despite its popularity, there is still much to be learned about this prehistoric creature. The discovery of Apex provides scientists with a unique opportunity to study the Stegosaurus in unprecedented detail.
“We are thrilled to have Apex as part of our collection,” said Dr. Mark Norell, curator of the American Museum of Natural History’s Division of Paleontology. “This fossil is a game-changer for Stegosaurus research, and we are eager to begin studying it in depth.”
The process of excavating and preparing Apex for display was a long and complex one. The fossil was discovered in 2015, and since then, a team of paleontologists and technicians has worked tirelessly to carefully extract the bones from the surrounding rock and rebuild the skeleton.
“The excavation process was a challenging but rewarding experience,” said Dr. Gregory Erickson, a paleontologist who was part of the team that discovered Apex. “We knew we had something special, but we didn’t realize just how significant it was until we began to excavate the fossil.”
Apex is not only an important scientific discovery but also a significant addition to the American Museum of Natural History’s dinosaur collection. The museum is renowned for its extensive collection of dinosaur fossils, which includes a Tyrannosaurus rex, a Velociraptor, and a Triceratops, among others.
The unveiling of Apex is expected to attract large crowds to the museum, and officials are preparing for a surge in interest in the exhibit. “We are excited to share Apex with the public,” said Dr. Norell. “This fossil is a remarkable find, and we are confident that it will inspire a new generation of scientists and dinosaur enthusiasts.”
In addition to its scientific significance, Apex is also an important cultural artifact. The Stegosaurus has captivated the imagination of the public for over a century, and the discovery of this nearly complete skeleton is a testament to the enduring fascination with these prehistoric creatures.
The display of Apex is part of a larger exhibit on the evolution of dinosaurs, which explores the biology, behavior, and diversity of these fascinating creatures. The exhibit features a range of fossils, artifacts, and interactive displays, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the history of life on Earth.
The unveiling of Apex is a significant event in the world of paleontology, and it is expected to generate widespread interest and excitement. As scientists continue to study this remarkable fossil, they will undoubtedly uncover new insights into the biology and behavior of the Stegosaurus, one of the most iconic dinosaurs of all time.
