3D scanning measurement method for seed size research

Abstract

Premise: Traditionally used seed size and surface area calculation techniques are often inaccurate or destructive. This is especially relevant for organisms with irregular shapes. It is believed that three-dimensional (3D) printing and scanning could also be disruptive technologies. However, these methods hold immense potential for ecology and evolution sciences, which have a longstanding tradition of inventing and creating objects for research, education, and outreach. Methods and Results: We describe how to 3D scan seeds reproducible on an inexpensive structured light based commodity 3D scanner. We then compared novel 3D and traditional 2D approaches by reproducibility and timing. Conclusions: This study demonstrates how 3D scanning methods are easily applicable to the quantification of seed shape and providing an easy entry into it.