Digital reconstruction of soft-tissue structures in fossils

摘要: In the last two decades, advances in computational imaging techniques and digital visualization have created novel avenues for study of fossil organisms. As a result, paleontology has undergone shift from pure physically preserved bones teeth, other hard tissues, to using virtual computer models specimens greater detail, restore incomplete specimens, perform biomechanical analyses. The rapidly increasing application these further paved way reconstruction soft-tissue structures, which are rarely or otherwise available record. this contribution, different types reconstructions introduced reviewed. Provided examples include methodological approaches musculature, endocranial components (e.g., brain, inner ear, neurovascular structures), soft tissues whole-body life reconstructions). Digital provide versatile tools but given nature some limitations uncertainties remain. Nevertheless, can new information, particular if interpreted phylogenetically grounded framework. Combined with analytical finite element analysis [FEA], multibody dynamics [MDA], fluid [CFD]), be used elucidate paleobiology extinct organisms test competing evolutionary hypotheses.