How is the paleontological heritage of Mexico and other Latin American countries protected?

Resumen

The paleontological heritage of Mexico consists of the fossil specimens housed in scientific collections (movable heritage), as well

as those found in fossiliferous localities throughout the country’s territory (immovable heritage). Since 1986, as stated in the Federal
Law on Monuments and Archaeological, Artistic and Historical Zones, the National Institute of Anthropology and History is in charge
of protecting fossils discovered in Mexico. Fossils are considered cultural heritage by law in several Latin American countries, such
as Argentina, Chile, El Salvador, Peru, and Mexico. However, this classification is not the most adequate because it does not guarantee
its comprehensive protection. In other countries, such as Spain, discussions have emerged as to whether paleontological heritage could
be considered natural heritage, with all its legal implications. There is no law in Mexico defining the criteria for considering fossil
sites as objects of protection; however, there are various instruments that allow their registration and therefore, a proposal for their
long-term management and protection. Nonetheless, paleontologists working on Mexican territory must be commited to comply with
the requirements already established by the law for the registration of palaeontological movable and immovable property. With this, it
is possible to improve and adapt the instruments and legal processes that allow the safeguarding of Mexico’s paleontological heritage.