IPHES-CERCA designs a protocol that allows the study of the most fragile fossils of the Camp dels Ninots
A study led by IPHES-CERCA, published in Geoheritage, proposes a methodology to decide how to extract, prepare, and digitize highly delicate paleontological remains
Research led by Adriana Linares, a predoctoral researcher at Universitat Rovira i Virgili and IPHES-CERCA, has developed an innovative protocol to digitize extremely fragile fossils without compromising their preservation, while enhancing scientific study, open access, and outreach.
The study, published in Geoheritage and involving a large research and technical team from the centre, focuses on small remains preserved in soft and unstable sediments at the Camp dels Ninots site.
The protocol establishes a methodology to determine, in each case, how to intervene non-invasively, minimizing risks and optimizing resources, while facilitating the generation of 3D models that support open science and knowledge transfer.
A method to intervene less and preserve more
The study addresses a recurring challenge at Camp dels Ninots: many small vertebrate fossils are preserved in clay-rich sediments that are soft and highly unstable, making them prone to fracturing during extraction or preparation. These are often centimetre-sized specimens (such as reptiles, amphibians, or small mammals) preserved in anatomical connection, meaning the bones remain in their original position.
This combination of fragile sediment and skeletal integrity means that any intervention may result in the loss of key information.
To tackle this issue, the team developed a decision-making protocol based on prior evaluation of factors such as fossil size, preservation state, degree of exposure, and sediment type.
When fossils are fully exposed and surface documentation is required, structured-light scanners can be used to produce fast and accurate 3D models. In contrast, when remains are partially or fully embedded—or when internal structures need to be accessed—X-ray-based techniques such as CT scanning or micro-CT are used, allowing researchers to “see” inside without manipulating the material.
Overall, this strategy adapts technology to each specific situation, optimizes resources, and ensures heritage preservation.
“One of the key aspects of the protocol is that it allows us to decide before intervening,” explains Adriana Linares. “We have combined different techniques and infrastructures—CT scanning at Hospital de Santa Tecla in Tarragona, micro-CT at CENIEH, and surface scanners at IPHES-CERCA—to adapt to each type of fossil and ensure the best strategy in every case.”
From research to knowledge transfer
One of the most relevant aspects of the protocol is its contribution to open science. The digital models generated can be deposited in open-access repositories, allowing the international scientific community to access, analyse, and reuse them without handling the original specimens.
This not only expands research possibilities but also ensures long-term preservation by creating secure digital copies.
Beyond research, these 3D models open new opportunities for outreach and education. Digital replicas enable interactive content, virtual environments, and educational materials tailored to different audiences. Moreover, physical replicas can be produced from these models, allowing safe handling in educational contexts.
This potential also extends to museums and interpretation centres, where digitization enhances exhibition strategies and accessibility. At Camp dels Ninots, this is reflected in initiatives such as the Espai Aquae and the interpretive trail.
Camp dels Ninots, a reference site
Camp dels Ninots, located in Caldes de Malavella, is one of the most important Pliocene paleontological sites in Europe. Formed within the crater of an ancient volcanic maar, it preserves an exceptional record of fauna and flora in an extraordinary state of conservation, with numerous complete skeletons in anatomical connection.
Recognized as a Cultural Asset of National Interest in 2015, it is a leading natural laboratory for studying past ecosystems.
“One of the project’s strategic objectives is to generate social impact from research,” says Dr. Gerard Campeny. “Camp dels Ninots is not only a scientific reference site, but also a driver of knowledge, education, and territorial development.”
Dr. Bruno Gómez de Soler adds: “These results would not be possible without the combination of an exceptional geological environment and systematic, interdisciplinary research. The fossil record of Camp dels Ninots is an inexhaustible source of knowledge.”
Reference:
Linares-Martín, A., Gómez de Soler, B., Farman, R. M., Moreno-Ribas, E., Mateos Prieto, P., Fontanals, M., Alías, A., Sopesens, J., Blain, H.-A., & Campeny Vall-llosera, G. (2026). Protocol development for an efficient digitization of palaeontological heritage: The case of Camp dels Ninots fossil site (Spain). Geoheritage, 18, 81. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12371-026-01294-7
Funding:
Research work at the Camp dels Ninots site is funded by the Department of Culture of the Generalitat de Catalunya through the four-year research project "The Plio-Pleistocene of Camp dels Ninots and the Prelittoral depression: paleoclimatic evolution, faunal and human dispersions III" (CLT009/22/00043), with the logistic and financial support of the Caldes de Malavella Town Council.