3D scanning measurement method for seed size research

Premise Traditionally used seed size and surface area calculation techniques are often inaccurate or destructive. This is especially relevant for organisms with irregular shapes. It is believed that three-dimensional (3D) printing and scanning could also be disruptive technologies. However, these methods hold immense potential for ecology and evolution sciences, which have a longstanding tradition of inventing and creating objects for research, education, and outreach. Methods and Results We describe how to 3D scan seeds reproducible on an inexpensive structured light based commodity 3D scanner. We then compared novel 3D and traditional 2D approaches by reproducibility and timing. Conclusions This study demonstrates how 3D scanning methods are easily applicable to the quantification of seed shape and providing an easy entry into it.