Anchitheriomys buceei – Ancient Beaver Species

March 31, 2023

Researchers from the Jackson School of Geosciences at the University of Texas at Austin have discovered a new species of ancient beaver in the fossil collections of the university. The species has been named Anchitheriomys buceei after a popular Texas travel center chain.

The Discovery of Anchitheriomys buceei

The new species of ancient beaver was discovered in the fossil collections of the University of Texas at Austin. It is believed to have lived in Texas around 15 million years ago. Anchitheriomys buceei was approximately 30% larger than modern beavers.

Why Anchitheriomys buceei is Named After Buc-ee’s

Anchitheriomys buceei is named after the famous Texas travel center chain, Buc-ee’s. The name honors the beaver’s Texas connection and the popular roadside chain that has become an iconic part of Texas culture. The researchers were inspired to name the new species of beaver after Buc-ee’s due to a chance encounter with a Buc-ee’s billboard. The founders of Buc-ee’s were thrilled to have a prehistoric beaver named after their company and stated that they are proud to be part of Texas history.

The Significance of the Partial Skull Fossil from Burkeville, Texas

The partial skull fossil from Burkeville, Texas, is significant because it is a fusion of bone and brain cast. This was created when sediment naturally seeped into the beaver’s brain cavity, creating a rock replica of the brain. The fossil provides insight into the size and shape of the brain of Anchitheriomys buceei.

Technology Used to Obtain High-Resolution X-Ray Images of the Skull

High-resolution X-ray images of the skull were obtained using Computed Tomography (CT) scanning. This technology allowed researchers to study the internal structure of the skull without damaging the fossil.

The Original Collectors of the Skull and the Intended Name of the New Species

A team of Texas paleontologists in 1941, including Curtis Hesse, originally collected the skull and intended to name it a new species. Unfortunately, Hesse died in 1945 before he could complete his study and publish his findings. The skull remained in the university’s collection until it was rediscovered and studied by the team from the Jackson School of Geosciences.

The Value of Discoveries Made in Existing Museum Collections

Discoveries made in existing museum collections can be just as valuable as new discoveries in the field. The rediscovery and study of the partial skull fossil from Burkeville, Texas, is an example of the importance of collections in museums and universities.

Buc-ee’s: A Brief History

Buc-ee’s was founded in 1982 by Arch “Beaver” Aplin III. The first store was located in Lake Jackson, Texas. Today, Buc-ee’s has over 38 locations across Texas, with plans for expansion to other states. The company is known for its clean restrooms, affordable fuel prices, and a wide range of snacks and souvenirs.

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