Scanning holotypes from the Vertebrate Paleontology Collection at the Museu Paraense Emilio Goeldi (Brazil): Tools for research and science outreach

Abstract

The scanning of paleontological collections is increasingly important for morphological studies and science outreach. In addition to ensuring data sharing, digitization contributes to preserving morphological information in case of damage to the original specimens. In this communication, we aim to report digital versions of the holotypes from the Vertebrate Paleontology Collection at the Museu Paraense Emilio Goeldi, Brazil. For this purpose, eighteen holotypes of Early/Middle Miocene Teleostei from Pirabas Formation, northern Brazil, were scanned using microtomography, and cybertypes were proposed. The CT-Scan data were stored in a virtual repository, can be freely accessed, and are available for future studies on the morphology of these specimens. Furthermore, these specimens are tiny and fragile, and digital versions can be an alternative to safely handling them. Finally, the digitization of important specimens, at least of holotypes, needs to be a standard practice in museum collections over the next years.