3d-imaging biological-imaging computer-vision entomology

Entomologists use a particle accelerator to image ants at scale

Antscan’s 3D Atlas Reveals Ant Anatomy Like Never Before

spectrum.ieee.org

March 6, 2026

8 min read

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Summary

Antscan is a new 3D atlas that provides detailed micrometer-resolution reconstructions of ant anatomy. The platform was developed by a multidisciplinary team including entomologists, physicists, computer scientists, and imaging specialists.

Key Takeaways

Antscan is a new 3D atlas that provides micrometer-resolution reconstructions of ant anatomy, including exoskeletons, muscles, and digestive tracts, for 792 species across 212 genera.
The high-resolution images from Antscan are available through an interactive online portal, allowing users to virtually explore and dissect the insects.
Antscan enhances access to natural history collections, enabling broader public engagement and potential applications in various fields, including science, art, and education.
The imaging technology used in Antscan involved an automated pipeline that utilized a particle accelerator to scan approximately 2,200 preserved ant specimens.

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