A 280-million-year-old fossil, once considered authentic, has been found to be fake, although the extent of the forgery is unclear, with some reports suggesting it is partially fake and others stating it is mostly paint. The fossil, which appears to be of a reptile, was discovered in 1931 and had been believed to be a significant find. New research has led to the conclusion that the fossil is not entirely genuine, with some parts possibly being painted on.