Cet.CT-Bank: A Postmortem Computed Tomography Imaging Data of Stranded Cetaceans from the Canary Islands

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Radiology
• Marine Biology
• Computational Anatomy

Background:

• Post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT) is crucial for investigating cetacean strandings, offering detailed 3D anatomical data.
• A standardized imaging resource is needed to advance research in marine mammal science.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce Cet.CT-Bank, a novel PMCT imaging dataset of stranded cetaceans.
• To provide a reusable resource for morphological research, veterinary pathology, and computational analysis.

Main Methods:

• Acquired PMCT scans from eight odontocete specimens of six species stranded along the Canary Islands coast.
• Utilized standardized CT protocols, storing data as DICOM files with comprehensive metadata.
• Generated automated validation reports for data traceability and reproducibility.

Main Results:

• The dataset, Cet.CT-Bank, includes eight odontocete specimens from six species.
• All scans feature standardized protocols, DICOM format, and complete metadata.
• Each case is supported by validation reports and supplementary biological/pathological data.

Conclusions:

• Cet.CT-Bank offers an open, reusable imaging resource for diverse scientific applications.
• The dataset facilitates morphological research, veterinary diagnostics, and forensic investigations.
• It supports the development of computational image analysis and AI-based approaches in cetacean research.