Computed tomography datasets and 3D models of California Quaternary tar seep faunas for education and research

The Rancho La Brea and McKittrick asphalt seeps of California have produced exceptionally rich Cenozoic fossil assemblages, preserving late Pleistocene to Holocene fauna from distinct environmental settings. Micro-computed tomography (CT) scanning was used to document the morphology of selected specimens in support of ongoing projects exploring the age and isotopic ecology of these faunas and create a teaching module designed to engage students in hands-on learning with 3D-printed replicas and real fossil data to explore paleobiological and paleoecological concepts. In total, 139 specimens, including 126 fossil specimens and 13 extant canid specimens, were scanned. By providing CT scans and 3D surface models, this dataset can facilitate a range of different morphological studies, while expanding access to UCMP collections for both research and teaching.