Published July 20, 2026
| Version v1
Dataset
Open
Betula nigra: High-Resolution Scans of Leaves (IFML Dataset 008)
Authors/Creators
Description
Abstract: This dataset contains high-resolution flatbed scans of Betula nigra (River Birch) collected in Story County, Iowa, USA. These images were generated as part of the Iowa Forestry Media Library (IFML).
Specimen Details
- Taxon: Betula nigra
- Family: Betulaceae
- Common Name: River Birch
- Specimen Type: Leaf (Adaxial & Abaxial)
- Collection Date: 2025
- Location: Story County, Iowa, USA
Data Structure
To facilitate both scientific analysis and general use, this dataset is organized into two distinct packages:
- Archival Package (.zip): Contains the raw, uncompressed 48-bit TIFF masters captured at 1200 dpi. These files are cropped to the specimen boundaries and contain no color grading, post-processing, or physical scale bars. Recommended for high-magnification analysis of venation and pubescence.
- Access Package (.zip): Contains processed, color-corrected images. This includes PNGs with backgrounds removed (transparent) and high-quality JPEGs sharpened for immediate use in presentations, teaching materials, and web applications.
Technical Specifications
- Scanner: Epson Expression 13000XL
- Resolution: 1200 dpi
- Color Depth: 48-bit Color (TIFF) / 24-bit (JPEG/PNG)
- Processing: Archival TIFFs are raw crops. Access files were processed in Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom using a standardized white balance and editing script to ensure consistency across the library.
Citation & Attribution
Under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International license (CC-BY 4.0), you are free to use these images but must provide appropriate credit.
- For Academic Research (Bibliography): Willard, Eli. (2026). Iowa Forestry Media Library: Betula nigra Dataset 008. Zenodo.
- For Web, Social Media, or Presentations (Caption/Credit Line): "Image courtesy of Eli Willard / Iowa Forestry Media Library (CC-BY 4.0)"
