What You See When You Turn a Fish Inside Out
Smithsonian scientists use X-rays to classify different species, but when viewed outside the lab, the images provide stunning art
- By Megan Gambino
- Smithsonian.com, February 07, 2012
The critically endangered smalltooth sawfish (Pristis pectinata) uses its "saw" more like a rake, dragging it through sand to find crustaceans, or a sword, swinging it through schools of fish to cut and stun them. (Sandra J. Raredon, Division of Fishes, NMNH)
In 23 years of working in the museum’s division of fishes, Raredon has taken more than 11,000 X-rays of specimens, including sawfish, moray eels, seahorses and piranha. She logged the first 10,000 using a chemical film-developing process. In 2001, she switched to taking digital X-rays after the museum purchased its first digital radiographic machine. Whereas a conventional X-ray requires about 30 minutes to develop and longer to dry, the digital versions are instantly ready for study or to be sent to researchers around the world. What’s more, scientists can zoom in on or invert the black-and-white X-rays to see a fish’s bone structure more clearly. Raredon is gradually X-raying her way through the collection, giving first priority to “types,” or the original specimens from which species were identified and named. After that come old specimens that are degrading and fish that resident and visiting scientists request she examine for their research.
Comments (6)
I thought that art was something that was created, not something that just appeared.
Posted by Jim on April 27,2012 | 04:34 PM
Although I personally would not use the word this way, I did just look it up, and the use of the word "reticent" is not inappropriate. reticent: "restrained in expression, presentation, or appearance " Before getting grouchy with the editors, try a quick search for multiple uses and definitions.
Posted by TTurner on April 3,2012 | 09:55 PM
They are stunning images. The slider that allows us to view the outside and inside at the same time is a great tool. I hope to visit the display at the National Museum of Natural History.
Posted by Kathy on February 18,2012 | 01:14 PM
Interesting,
However I have been doing this as an artist for 35 years.
See my website : www.beyondlight.com. - gallery- gifts of the sea.
In my files I have many more fish.
Albert
Posted by albert Koetsier on February 18,2012 | 11:38 AM
THIS information-site, WILL BE SO HELPFUL TO MY GRANDSON, WHO IS HOME SCHOOLED. AND IS FASINATED BY OCEAN CRITTERS. THANKS FOR SHARING as it is beautiful, non-scary!
Posted by Jill Bugdanavage on February 17,2012 | 04:48 PM
"The fanged eel is reticent during the daytime ..."
Reticent??? Look it up, editors!
Posted by Christopher Carlson` on February 13,2012 | 05:05 PM