Multiscale geometric 3D recording of palaeontological heritage in La Rioja (Spain): regional context, sites, tracks and individual fossils

Abstract

The region of La Rioja (Spain) is rich in paleontological sites, especially those related to dinosaur fossil footprints, of which more than 150 tracksites with more than 10,000 tracks have been described. The cataloging and systematic study of this heritage requires its correct location in space and the provision of an adequate geometric representation of both the distribution of remains in the sites and the three-dimensional shape of the different fossil elements. In this work, the various geometric documentation techniques used for this purpose (GNSS, photogrammetry and structured light scanner) are presented, as well as the description of the main products that are generated and their usefulness for the study, management, outreach activities and preservation of paleontological heritage in this region. These products will be key to the development of paleontological research projects and the development of educational and outreach tools.