A refined method for digitally modeling small and complex plant structures in 3D: An example from the grasses...

A refined procedure is described for modeling small, intricate plant structures using computer-aided design software. The procedure facilitates the study of wind pollination in the family Poaceae and provides virtual biological illustrations for public outreach.

Spikelets were fixed in gFAA, dehydrated using ethanol and xylene, embedded in paraffin wax, and then sectioned with a rotary microtome. Images of serial sections were used as a reference for modeling the shape of bracts with splines in a computer-aided design program. Virtual models produced by this method have many potential uses; examples include geometric morphometric analyses and simulations of computational fluid dynamics.

This protocol is a synthesis of modern biological illustration and engineering technology. Virtual models facilitate quantitative experiments that may address questions about reproductive biology, conditions shaping the form of anatomical support, or the morphological evolution of structures of biomechanical interest.