Automated 3D-modeling of small invertebrates

Accurately identifying, describing, and classifying new and already described insect species based on morphology can be difficult with only one view of the specimens. Therefore, techniques have been developed for obtaining photorealistic 3D models of dried, pinned invertebrates, but no automated approach is available for small invertebrates preserved in ethanol. To address this shortcoming, we present an automated 360-degree imaging system that captures multiple images of small, ethanol-preserved invertebrates to create 3D models. The system captures image stacks from different positions, which are then processed using Helicon Focus software to obtain extended-focus images. The Agisoft Metashape software creates a textured 3D model, enabling photorealistic models of insects smaller than three millimeters preserved in ethanol. The image acquisition process optimizes the trade-off between the quality of the 3D model and processing time by taking the minimum required number of images. Automated focus stacking and 3D modeling processes can be fine-tuned to optimize model quality. In addition, we are currently developing methods to determine the surface area and volume of the specimens. ... mehrWe predict that researchers will use the 3D models to analyze insect morphology in collaborative teams that can view the models simultaneously on computers or virtual reality headsets. Overall, this automated approach using photogrammetry has the potential to streamline and enhance biodiversity research and taxonomic research on small insects.