CRUISIN’ THE DIGITAL FREEWAY: USING NEW TECHNOLOGY AND ARTISTIC SENSIBILITY TO REVITALIZE FORGOTTEN SHARK FOSSILS FOR RESEARCH AND OUTREACH

Scanning technologies and online databasing are revolutionizing and rejuvenating natural history collections and the way in which research is conducted on these artifacts. The Paleozoic shark project is a thematic digital collection that is capturing and publishing shark tooth and jaw fossils online. Focusing on edestoid shark fossils, including Helicoprionand Edestus specimens collected nearly a century ago, the database includes external 3D scans with optional photo texture, and internal CT scans and modeled reconstructions. External scans form the basis for new anatomical descriptions, but more significantly, they have allowed the research group of scientists and artists to model the growth and functionality of ancient shark jaws. Using 3D printing and mechanization, we can convert these models to fully functioning, interactive models to educate and engage the public. A thematic digital collection is greater than the sum of its parts. It allows disparate collections and data to be centralized, allowing for seamless integration of research and outreach products and dissemination to the largest possible audiences through web publishing.