Hidden treasures uncovered: successful detection of fossils below the surface in large limestone blocks using a standard medical X-ray CT scanner

The use of CT scans in palaeontology has a long history. Most X-ray fossils are carried out on previously prepared specimens and seldom unprepared blocks fossils. Here we report the standard medical scanner to detect vertebrate invertebrate inside limestone as an aid subsequent preparation. results were largely successful, with low-resolution images radiodensity thresholds which nevertheless created sufficient contrast for identification objects their location limestone, thus optimizing allocation time resources palaeontological We conclude that scanners initial visual inspection presence below surface is possible, cost effective reliable. In addition, it allows original raw data be preserved digital object. advantages making facilitate preparation under logistic or budgetary limitations becoming more apparent.