![]() ![]() ![]() Digital 3D visualization techniques such as computed tomography (CT) have become widespread within the last decade. The use of three-dimensional (3D) visualization techniques have been used in biology and paleontology for over a century. The strategies demonstrated here optimize scientific accuracy and computational efficiency and can be applied to a broad range of taxa. Our case studies and associated step-by-step supplementary tutorials present instructions for working with reconstructions of plants and animals to directly address and resolve common issues with 3D imaging data. ![]() ![]() Here, we present a compilation of techniques to build high-quality 3D digital models of extant and fossil taxa from 3D imaging data using freely available software for students and educators. However, morphological analyses inevitably present challenges, particularly in fossil taxa where taphonomic or preservational artifacts distort and reduce the fidelity of the original morphology through shearing, compression, and disarticulation, for example. These techniques have improved our understanding of the anatomy of many taxa, and the integration of downstream computational tools applied to 3D datasets have broadened the range of analyses that can be performed (e.g., finite element analyses, geometric morphometrics, biomechanical modeling, physical modeling using 3D printing). Expanded use of 3D imaging in organismal biology and paleontology has substantially enhanced the ability to visualize and analyze specimens. ![]()
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