Data from: Micro-computed tomography: introducing new dimensions to taxonomy

Continuous improvements in the resolution of three-dimensional imaging
have lead to an increased application of these techniques in conventional
taxonomic research in recent years. Coupled with an ever increasing
research effort in cybertaxonomy, three-dimensional imaging could give a
boost to the development of virtual specimen collections, allowing rapid
and simultaneous access to accurate virtual representations of type
material. This paper explores the potential of micro-computed tomography,
a non-destructive three-dimensional imaging technique based on X-ray
energies, for supporting research in systematics and taxonomy. The
subsequent use of these data as virtual type material, so-called
“cybertypes”, and the creation of virtual collections lie at the core of
this potential. Sample preparation, image acquisition, data processing and
presentation of results are demonstrated using polychaetes (bristle
worms), a representative taxon of macro-invertebrates, as a study object.
Effects of the technique on the morphological, anatomical and molecular
identity of the specimens are investigated. The paper evaluates the
results and discusses the potential and the limitations of the technique
for creating cybertypes. It also discusses the challenges that the
community might face to establish virtual collections. Potential future
applications of three-dimensional information in taxonomic research are
outlined, including an outlook to new ways of producing, disseminating and
publishing taxonomic information.