Comparison of methods: Micro-CT visualization method and epoxy cast-embedding reveal hidden details of bioerosion in the tube walls of Cretaceous polychaete worms

Abstract

Bioerosion in three serpulid tubes of the (sub-)genera Cementula, Pyrgopolon (Septenaria), and Placostegus from the Bohemian Cretaceous Basin was studied by a combination of micro-computed tomography and vacuum cast-embedding technique producing polymer resin casts. Results gained from both methods were evaluated and compared in terms of material usability, destructive force, quality of the resulting image, and hardware/software requirements. The advantage of the micro-CT methodology is its non-destructiveness and the ability to make three-dimensional images, animations, and serial sections through the object; this method is suitable for most examined