Microvasculature of the African Grey Parrot

This image set is a study of 3D reconstructed African Grey Parrot post-euthanasia. The 3D model details the highly intricate vasculature system of the bird and was made possible through the use of a new research contrast agent called BriteVu® (Scarlet Imaging). This contrast agent can cast the cardiovascular down to the capillary level, allowing researchers to study a subject's vascular system with incredible detail. 2,933 CT (computed tomography) images at 100 micrometer slice thickness were utilised for this series. These 2D images were converted into 3D representations using tissue segmentation based on tissue density, resulting in Stereolithography (.STL) 3D models of the skin and brain, cardiovascular system and skeletal system. The models were then textured and rendered to produce these images. The parrot model measures 27.83 (h) x 8.15 (d) x 9.48 (w) centimeters.