Abstract
The architecture of biogenic structures can be highly influential in determining species contributions to major soil and sediment processes, but detailed 3-D characterisations are rare and descriptors of form and complexity are lacking. Here we provide replicate high-resolution micro-focus computed tomography (μ-CT) data for the complete burrow systems of three co-occurring, but functionally contrasting, sediment-dwelling inter-tidal invertebrates assembled alone, and in combination, in representative model aquaria. These data (≤2,000 raw image slices aquarium−1, isotropic voxel resolution, 81 μm) provide reference models that can be used for the development of novel structural analysis routines that will be of value within the fields of ecology, pedology, geomorphology, palaeobiology, ichnology and mechanical engineering. We also envisage opportunity for those investigating transport networks, vascular systems, plant rooting systems, neuron connectivity patterns, or those developing image analysis or statistics related to pattern or shape recognition. The dataset will allow investigators to develop or test novel methodology and ideas without the need to generate a complete three-dimensional computation of exemplar architecture.
Highlights
Background & SummarySoils and sediments provide habitat for a wide range of organisms and the vertical exploitation of this ecospace has been important in mediating major ecosystem properties and the diversification of life over geological timescales[1,2,3]
Surficial sediment and three co-occurring functionally contrasting inter-tidal invertebrates were collected from the mid-shore at Breydon water, Great Yarmouth, UK (N52° 37.030′, E01° 41.390′) and returned to the Biodiversity and Ecosystem Futures Facility at the University of Southampton to acclimatise to laboratory conditions (5 days)
Circular aquaria were filled to a depth of 8 cm with sediment homogenate overlain by 4 cm of seawater
Summary
Soils and sediments provide habitat for a wide range of organisms and the vertical exploitation of this ecospace has been important in mediating major ecosystem properties and the diversification of life over geological timescales[1,2,3]. Replicate (n = 5) invertebrate communities (1 g wet weight aquaria − 1; ~127 g m − 2) were assembled in monoculture (Hediste diversicolor, HD; Hydrobia ulvae, HU; or Corophium volutator, CV) and in equal mixture (Mix) These μ-CT sediment scans can provide reference models which may be of use in a range of connected fields, such as for the development of novel structural analysis routines and computer models in ecology[17,19], pedology[20], geomorphology, ichnology[21], palaeobiology, and mechanical engineering[22]. We have made this dataset available to allow investigators to develop or test novel methodology and ideas without the need to generate a complete three-dimensional computation of exemplar architecture
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