Exploring the Ancient World: Exhibits at the Brigham Young University Museum of Paleontology
The Brigham Young University (BYU) Museum of Paleontology offers a captivating journey through time, showcasing the cutting edge of dinosaur science and inviting visitors to witness the process of discovery firsthand. This museum is not just a static display of fossils; it's a dynamic hub of research and education, where scientists and students actively engage in uncovering the secrets of the past.
A Glimpse into the Museum's Collection
The museum boasts a diverse collection of fossils, nearly all of which are housed in its collections room. Visitors can explore fully mounted dinosaur displays, including specimens so recently discovered that they are yet to be formally named. The museum provides a unique opportunity to observe paleontologists at work through the window of a real fossil laboratory, making visitors a part of the ongoing scientific process.
Key Exhibits and Discoveries
One notable specimen within the BYU collection is BYU 12613, a very posterior cervical vertebra (likely C14 or C15) of a diplodocine sauropod. This fossil, probably belonging to Kaatedocus or Diplodocus, originates from the renowned Dry Mesa Quarry. The exhibit includes both the original fossil and a 50% scale 3D print, allowing visitors to appreciate the intricate details of the bone. The real bone has a mid-height centrum length of 270mm, compared to 642mm for C14 of Diplodocus.
Another significant exhibit features the 7th cervical vertebrae of BYU 1252-18531. This is an apatosaurine at the Brigham Young University Museum of Paleontology which the museum has catalogued as “Apatosaurus excelsus” (i.e. Brontosaurus excelsus). The vertebra is displayed in the rarely seen ventral view, which really emphasizes the ludicrously over-engineered cervical ribs.
The museum also houses a skeleton of Utahraptor, a “giant” dromaeosaurid from Utah, described by Kirkland et al. (1993).
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The Allure of Sauropod Vertebrae
The BYU Museum of Paleontology is particularly notable for its extensive collection of sauropod vertebrae. One visitor described the experience of "cruising down one of the aisles of sauropod vertebrae" as akin to being in "heaven." This vast collection allows researchers to study the morphology and evolution of these iconic dinosaurs in detail.
One example is BYU specimen DM/90 CVR 3+4, cervical vertebra of ?Camarasaurus in anterior view.
Research and Collaboration
The museum serves as a focal point for paleontological research, attracting scientists and students from around the world. Recent research trips to the museum have proven highly productive, fostering collaboration and leading to new discoveries. These visits often involve close examination of the museum's collections, discussions with curators and collections managers, and the exchange of knowledge.
Pneumaticity in Sauropods and Birds
One area of ongoing research involves the study of pneumaticity, the presence of air-filled spaces within bones. This feature is particularly well-developed in both sauropod dinosaurs and birds, and understanding its function can provide insights into their respiratory systems and biomechanics.
Mathew Wedel and Michael Taylor's 2013 paper on neural spine bifurcation in sauropod dinosaurs of the Morrison Formation highlights the importance of detailed anatomical study. Wedel's later work in 2024 touches on evolutionary trends and the challenges of interpreting the fossil record.
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The museum's collections provide valuable resources for researchers studying pneumatic diverticula, the air-filled sacs that extend from the lungs into the bones and soft tissues. These diverticula are thought to have played a role in reducing bone weight, improving respiratory efficiency, and potentially influencing flight mechanics in birds.
The Connection to Avian Research
The study of pneumaticity in sauropods has direct relevance to understanding the respiratory systems of modern birds. Research by Schachner et al. (2024) has demonstrated the influence of the respiratory system on flight mechanics in soaring birds, highlighting the importance of the sub-pectoral diverticulum (SPD) in improving the mechanical advantage of the pectoralis muscles. This connection underscores the value of studying both extinct and extant species to gain a comprehensive understanding of evolutionary processes.
Educational Outreach and Public Engagement
In addition to its research activities, the BYU Museum of Paleontology is committed to educating the public about paleontology and the history of life on Earth. The museum offers a variety of exhibits and programs designed to engage visitors of all ages.
Experiencing the Museum
The museum's exhibits are designed to be both informative and engaging, with fully mounted dinosaur skeletons and interactive displays that bring the ancient world to life. Visitors can witness the ongoing work of paleontologists in the fossil laboratory, gaining a firsthand understanding of the scientific process.
The BYU Museum of Paleontology is one of five museums at Brigham Young University. The campus itself offers tours that you can schedule online, and a guide can take you around and point out all the museums and different on-campus attractions.
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A "Fossil Vending Machine"
Adding a touch of whimsy to the museum experience is a "fossil vending machine" that dispenses casts of fossils, shark teeth, and even pieces of Campo del Cielo meteorite. This unique feature allows visitors to take home a tangible reminder of their visit and further explore the wonders of paleontology.
Integration with Faith
Some individuals, like museum curator Dr. Rod Scheetz, see a connection between paleontological discoveries and their faith. They view the natural world as a testament to the creation, finding beauty and wonder in the rocks, mountains, and hills. This perspective highlights the potential for science and religion to coexist and inform one another.
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