Shiu-Ying Hu Herbarium, School of Life Sciences, CUHK recently established an innovative 3D plant database of fruits and seeds through the integration of plant taxonomy, herbarium research and education, and photogrammetry. By utilizing the "structure-from-motion" technique, the fruits and seeds were reconstructed into 3D models which reflect their genuine structure, size and color. The data sharing platform allows users to observe these 3D models on computer and mobile devices without additional software installation. The 3D models can be rotated and magnified in order to inspect features less than 1 mm, which resembles real samples on hand.

Each 3D model was reconstructed according to an authenticated voucher plant specimen which was deposited permanently in the Shiu-Ying Hu Herbarium. Hence, the 3D models can be referred as voucher evidence in scientific research. The research methodology was published in PLOS ONE in August. In the meantime, the "Virtual Carpological Herbarium of Fruits and Seeds" of the Shiu-Ying Hu Herbarium has been launched. This database is now holding over 300 3D plant models, including about 200 native plant species.

The research team hopes that the database could contribute to local plant identification, ecological survey, and conservation of rare and endangered species. This new platform also demonstrates the feasibility of applying new technology in botanical research and STEAM education, and it can further facilitate inter-disciplinary collaboration among different regions. To explore the 3D models, please visit the link below. Your comments and sharing are much appreciated.

Link to Article：Wang HL, Wong TH, Chan YM, Cheng YS, Lau DTW (2022) Photogrammetric reconstruction of 3D carpological collection in high resolution for plants authentication and species discovery. PLoS ONE 17(8): e0270199.https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0270199