Analysing planktonic foraminiferal growth in three dimensions with foram3D: an R package for automated trait measurements from CT scans

Abstract. Foraminifera are one of the few taxa that preserve their entire ontogeny in fossilised remains. Revealing this through micro-computed tomography (CT) fossil planktonic foraminifera has greatly improved our understanding life history and allows accurate quantification total shell volume, growth rates developmental constraints throughout an individual's life. Studies using CT scans currently mainly focus on chamber size, but wealth three-dimensional data generated by potential to reconstruct complete trajectories. Here we present open-source R package analyse space. Using only centroid xyz coordinates every chamber, functions determine sequence check chambers correct order. Once order been verified, calculate distances angles between subsequent chambers, number whorls final whorl at time each was built, and, for first time, quantify trochospirality. The applications will enable repeatable analysis large sets key taxonomic traits ultimately provide new insights into effects evolution.