Remains of ancient reptile found in Italian alps are mostly fake, UCC scientists say

The discovery has led UCC researcher Dr Valentina Rossi to urge caution when referencing the fossil in future studies.

The Tridentinosaurus antiquus, which was discovered in the Italian Alps in 1931. It was long thought that the dark outline was preserved soft tissues. However, researchers have now discovered that this colouring is, in fact, paint. Picture: Dr Valentina Rossi/UCC.

A University College Cork (UCC) researcher is behind a startling discovery with the potential to redefine reptile evolution history.

Dr Valentina Rossi led the research team which determined that a 280m-year-old lizard fossil is, in part, a forgery.