3D CORAL MODELS
Explore our 3D coral model collections to get up close, interact with, and learn about these beautiful, intricate, and diverse animal species.
We’ve been creating these high resolution digital models for research and visualization since 2014, both on our own and in collaboration with educational institutions — you can use them for scientific measurements, virtual or augmented reality experiences, to create a physical model through 3D printing, or to simply explore and enjoy!*
*A licensing fee is required for commercial use, contact info@thehydro.us
THE HYDROUS COLLECTION
THE HYDROUS AND THE SMITHSONIAN
COLLABORATION
Explore this collection of coral reef specimens from the National Museum of Natural History. They are split across 5 lesson modules that mimic a dive profile (immerse to ascend) and progress together, but can also be explored individually.
View on your mobile device to experience the augmented reality feature.
BACKGROUND
Using a technique called photogrammetry that requires just a camera and software, we non-invasively model a living coral while underwater by capturing 2D photographs. Once back on land, we stitch those images together to reproduce accurate and interactive 3D models.
“This technology will allow us to better understand coral reef diversity and health at an unprecedented scale, allowing us to help preserve them before they are gone.”
We use a similar process with partners like the California Academy of Sciences and the Smithsonian Institution to help digitize their collections and bring back-of-house treasures to the masses.
“The [Hydrous] models are incredible. I see many areas where such high resolution models would be useful. We need a non-destructive way to accurately measure surface area and volume of corals. I think this would be incredible as a visualization and would definitely get people talking about how fabulous corals are.”
WHAT’S NEXT?
The Hydrous is experimenting with reality capture at larger scales, including reef swaths (video below is an area of 10m x 10m) and entire islands (second video below is of Pineapple Island, Maldives). Coupled with traditional data, we are able to tell a richer story of change to organisms and ecosystems over time.
WHAT IS PHOTOGRAMMETRY?
Learn more about the non-destructive process of photogrammetry in the video below and download our guide to learn how to conduct underwater photogrammetry yourself!