Rapid imaging in the field followed by photogrammetry digitally captures the otherwise lost dimensions of plant specimens

Abstract

Premise We recognized the need for a customized imaging protocol for plant specimens at the time of collection for the purpose of three-dimensional (3D) modeling, as well as the lack of a broadly applicable photogrammetry protocol that encompasses the heterogeneity of plant specimen geometries and the challenges introduced by processes such as wilting. Methods and results We developed an equipment list and set of detailed protocols describing how to capture images of plant specimens in the field prior to their deformation (e.g., with pressing) and how to produce a 3D model from the image sets in Agisoft Metashape Professional. Conclusions The equipment list and protocols represent a foundation on which additional improvements can be made for specimen geometries outside of the range of the six types considered, and an easy entry into photogrammetry for those who have not previously used it.

Plant phenotyping relevance

植物標本の3D形状を取得するための野外撮像およびフォトグラメトリ手順を開発した研究であり、画像取得・形状抽出手法が中心です。

Code and data availability

The paper's field-captured plant specimen image sets and resulting 3D meshes are publicly deposited on MorphoSource (project 000494239), and the final 3D models for the five viable subject types are also publicly viewable on Sketchfab. These directly reproduce the paper's photogrammetry-based plant digitization outputs