New technique captures detailed 3D scans of live insects

Researchers have imaged whole live insects using a technique called X-ray micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). Imaging whole live insects is challenging because of the radiation doses required to obtain the images and the movement of the insects, compromising image quality - so most research involving involving invertebrates imaging requires animal sacrifice. But in a new study, researchers used carbon dioxide gas to anesthetize the insects to prevent them from moving during 3D visualization, and according to the researchers, the method had very little impact on the insects' longevity. In order to image live insects, the researchers say it's crucial to fully immobilize them, deliver a low-enough radiation dose to allow for repeated scans of the same individuals for time-relevant studies, and provide adequate image resolution and quality to distinguish internal structures. The researchers, based at the University of Western Ontario, scanned Colorado potato beetles (Leptinotarsa decemlineata) and true armyworms (Pseudaletia unipuncta).