A workflow and protocol describing the field to digitization process for new project-based fossil leaf collections

Area of Science:

• Paleobotany
• Digital Curation
• Scientific Data Management

Background:

• Paleobotanical research often involves extensive fossil leaf specimen collection and data management.
• Integrating new specimen data collection with digitization can be challenging, especially with limited institutional support.
• Efficient data mobilization is crucial for reconstructing past ecosystems and biodiversity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a comprehensive workflow and protocol for paleobotanical researchers.
• To integrate project-based fossil leaf specimen and data collection with curation and digitization.
• To facilitate efficient digitization of new collections and promote public databasing of specimen and project data.

Main Methods:

• Development and refinement of a workflow encompassing field, museum, and data mobilization components.
• Customization of a workspace and streamlining of specimen data collection, curation, and digitization into an integrated processing pipeline.
• Application of the workflow to a project reconstructing an extensive fossil forest from leaf impressions/compressions.

Main Results:

• The integrated workflow significantly accelerated the accumulation of specimen data and images.
• Streamlining the processing pipeline improved efficiency in data collection and digitization.
• The workflow proved effective for a large-scale fossil forest reconstruction project.

Conclusions:

• The developed protocols offer paleobotanists logistics-focused methods for integrating research with digitization.
• These methods are particularly beneficial for institutions with limited collection support staff.
• The protocols support the timely generation of specimen images for research purposes and public dissemination.