Animating fossilized invertebrates by motion reconstruction.

This article discusses the importance of motion reconstruction in studying fossilized invertebrates. While most paleontological studies focus on static anatomical features, understanding the dynamic motion of extinct species is crucial for linking form and function. Recent advancements in 3D digital technologies have provided paleontologists with the opportunity to non-destructively investigate the motion characteristics of extinct species. The article presents a step-by-step approach for achieving motion reconstruction in fossil invertebrates, using the example of the Cretaceous hell ants Dhagnathos. The results of motion reconstruction can provide valuable insights into the evolutionary traces and ecological landscapes of extinct species. However, there are challenges in accurately reconstructing the motion of tiny invertebrates and in replicating their structures in robotic models. Overall, motion reconstruction offers a holistic approach to understanding invertebrate paleontology and encourages interdisciplinary collaboration. [Extracted from the article]