Abstract
Lignite deposits are characterized by a high probability of fossil preservation along with a high concentration of pyrite minerals. When fossils are discovered, exposure to the humidity and oxygen in the air begins a destabilization of the minerals and activation of chemical oxidation. In the last century, it was common practice to protect fossils by covering them with unspecified commercial varnish, but today it is clear this method is useless for long-term preservation. Moreover, varnish obliterates the precise features of teeth and bones, usually preventing researchers from correctly analysing and describing these specimens. In this paper, we describe the methodology applied for conserving fossils identified as Anthracotherium magnum, discovered in lignite deposits of Chiuppano (Vicenza, Italy) in the mid-twentieth century. We pre-prepared the specimens, removing varnish from the fossil surfaces, and we exposed them to an aerosol solution of PEG400 and concentrated ammonia. We discuss the colour shift of bones and the rediscovery of anatomical characteristics to underline the importance of prompt action in the preservation of fragile specimens for future exhibition.
Highlights
The genus Anthracotherium was established by George Cuvier (1822) with a detailed description of fossils discovered at Cadibona
In 2007, the authors treated pyrite decay analogous to that discussed here in the Chiuppano fossils, which had affected the famous Eocene palm remains from the Bolca Lagerstätte
The mixture of PEG 400 and ammonia penetrates fossils more completely than ethanolamine thioglycolate and more efficiently prevents new oxidation. This methodology improves the long-term stability of fragmentary fossils when it is associated with micro-climatic control in storage, avoiding dangers related to their possible collapse
Summary
The genus Anthracotherium was established by George Cuvier (1822) with a detailed description of fossils discovered at Cadibona (near Savona, Italy) Since this first description, several anthracotheres sensu stricto have been reported from Eocene and Oligocene sites in Asia and Europe, respectively (Tsubamoto et al 2002). Chiuppano is located 30 km north of the city of Vicenza at the base of the Asiago plateau (WGS84 latitude 45.762626, longitude 11.463182), and the surrounding areas are characterized by lignite beds. In this area, lignite deposits have been exploited since the early 19th century for fossil fuel extraction.
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