ABOUT DRP
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SCIENCE RESEARCH
 » I. Research System
 » II. Research Methods
 » A. Phylogenetics
 » B. Morphometrics
 » C. SEM
 » D. X-Radiology
 » E. Development Experiments
 » F. Field Research
 » III. Caribbean Biodiversity Research
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X-radiography is an important method for our research on evolution and development. In order to study ontogenetic evolution quantitatively it is necessary to document size and shape changes through growth. This is possible in marginellid gastropods by using X-radiography. X-radiographs of adult specimens reveal a nearly complete record of ontogeny. The ventral surface of Prunum shells generally is flat and smooth. Shells are x-rayed in this life position (ventral surface down) in order to provide a consistent orientation for measuring distances and establishing geometric landmarks. Prunum shells X-rayed at approximately 30-50kw for 60-120 seconds provide images of early ontogeny that can be used in morphometric analyses.