Bio-photogrammetry: digitally archiving coloured 3D morphology data of creatures and associated challenges

Abstract

Morphological data of life forms are fundamental for documenting and understanding biodiversity. I developed a photogrammetry technique for reconstructing the outer coloured morphology of various creatures and published more than 1000 models online (https://sketchfab.com/ffishAsia-and-floraZia). By suspending it with nylon fishing line(s), taking digital photos from multiple angles and analysing the photos with photogrammetry software, we can obtain a fine 3-dimensional (3D) model of a creature. I believe the challenge could contribute to various fields, such as taxonomy, museology, morphology, anatomy, ecology, education, artificial intelligence, virtual reality, metaverse and, eventually, open/citizen science. Herein, I report the idea and achievement, which I have termed “bio-photogrammetry.”