New Fly Species Named After Bitcoin Following Museum Auction
A previously undiscovered fly species from Papua New Guinea has been named Chrysosoma bitcoin after venture capitalist Mark Carnegie and cryptocurrency entrepreneur Sergei Sergienko purchased naming rights at the 2021 Australian Museum Foundation Gala Dinner auction. The long-legged fly, identified by Australian Museum entomologist Dr. Dan Bickel from collections representing Oceania, was the first species to have its naming rights paid for with Bitcoin at the institution. Carnegie and Sergienko emphasized their commitment to environmental responsibility by purchasing carbon credits to offset the cryptocurrency transaction. The naming highlights how digital technology can support cultural institutions through new fundraising approaches while drawing attention to insect biodiversity and conservation needs.
Key facts
- A new fly species from Papua New Guinea has been named Chrysosoma bitcoin
- Naming rights were purchased by Mark Carnegie and Sergei Sergienko at a 2021 Australian Museum auction
- Payment was made using Bitcoin, a first for the museum
- The species was identified by Australian Museum entomologist Dr. Dan Bickel
- The buyers purchased carbon credits to offset environmental impacts of the Bitcoin transaction
Entities
Institutions
- Australian Museum
- Australian Museum Foundation
Locations
- Papua New Guinea
- Australia