Over 13,000 Vertebrate Specimens Digitized in Landmark openVertebrate Project

The five-year initiative has made detailed 3D models of museum specimens freely accessible, revolutionizing scientific and educational access.

The openVertebrate (oVert) project, a five-year initiative among 18 institutions, has completed the CT scanning of over 13,000 vertebrate specimens, making 3D models freely available online.
CT scans reveal detailed internal anatomy, including bone structures and soft tissues, without the need for dissection.
The project aims to increase accessibility to museum collections for scientists, educators, and the public, reducing the need for physical specimen handling.
Discoveries from the scans include unique anatomical features and insights into animal evolution, such as the presence of osteoderms in spiny mice and the evolutionary history of frog teeth.
oVert's digital models are used for scientific research, education, and even art, showcasing the project's broad impact beyond traditional museum exhibits.