The world’s richest people are buying up Tyrannosaurus rex fossils at an alarming rate, leaving researchers with limited access to scientifically valuable specimens. A recent study found that more than half of the 61 known T. rex specimens in public museums and trusts are now privately owned. This trend is “dispiriting and exasperating” according to Thomas Carr, a leading T. rex researcher.
Carr’s research revealed that only 11% of commercially sourced fossils end up in public institutions, while private companies discover twice as many fossils than museums. The luxury fossil market has grown significantly, with the most expensive dinosaur ever sold being a stegosaurus for $44.6 million. This trend is not unique to T. rex; other dinosaurs are also being bought and sold by wealthy collectors.
Researchers fear that this trend will compromise our understanding of ancient species like T. rex. Carr’s study found that juvenile and subadult specimens, which are crucial for studying growth patterns, are overrepresented in private collections. This loss of specimens has a significant impact on the scientific community, with some researchers expressing concern that it may hinder progress in understanding T. rex biology.
The lack of transparency in the private market makes it difficult to track the number of fossils being sold and owned. Carr hopes that his study will inspire other researchers to examine how the commercial market affects ancient species like he has done for T. rex. As the luxury fossil market continues to grow, it’s essential to consider the impact on scientific research and the preservation of our cultural heritage.
Source: https://www.livescience.com/animals/dinosaurs/dispiriting-and-exasperating-the-worlds-super-rich-are-buying-up-t-rex-fossils-and-its-hampering-research