Marine Biology Uses 3D Laser Scanning

Marine biology is one of the neatest fields there is in science. Marine biologists are always adopting the latest tools to study underwater species. A team focused on preserving species digitally, focused on a new project led by Biologist Duncan Irschick. Together, the group was able to create a 3D model of a hammerhead shark. The project’s goal was to capture one of the hammerhead sharks that are an endangered species, one that spends its summers in Bimini. To get up close to these sharks, they had to take several underwater cameras and 3D laser scanning equipment that could be submerged by the saltwater.

When 3D laser scanning was first developed, no one ever imagined it would help with all of the extraordinary projects it is involved in today. No one ever thought it would go below the water to capture a giant species of endangered shark. In this case, they chose to 3D scan a shark named Nemesis, known by all of the local divers; she is one of the biggest of her kind.

This project was created to promote wildlife conservation efforts, draw attention to some of the animals that need our support. As well as encourage education on some of the endangered animals living around us. 3D laser scanning is one of the best ways to spread free information and has been used to collect, save, and share knowledge. Our world is in chaos, but it is not any reason to stop protecting those with fins that cannot defend themselves.

The benefits of 3D laser scanning

Using this technology can be some of the most promising when talking about spreading information fast and accurately. There are some benefits to 3D laser scanning that can be crucial for making a project successful.

• Noninvasive- The best thing about using this technology is that it in no way harms the animals. The lasers will not have any bad effects, and there will be no physical touch involved in the scans. This not only allows researchers to collect the most detailed information, but it allows the animals to be saved. This is a crucial benefit when working with wildlife or people. Therefore, 3D technology has become so popular in many fields.
• Water Resistant- Not all technology is made the same, and there are so many kinds of 3D laser scanning devices to choose from. In this case, the researchers’ team was able to choose a piece of equipment that could be totally submerged underwater without destroying it.
• High Quality- There are times when it is extremely hard to get good quality images under the water. 3D laser scanning is the best choice because it will pick up the highest quality detail, no matter its environment.
• Fast- The best thing about this technology is that it is incredibly quick. It is one of the fastest ways to gather information and analyze it rapidly. It is truly amazing.

There are amazing benefits to using this for preserving wildlife. It is one of the best ways to obtain data, save it, and create a model out of it. The information can be sent to anyone in the world, and the models can be shared to draw the public’s attention.