Carlos Neto de Carvalho

Autotomy—the voluntary shedding of a limb as a defensive response to predation, intraspecific aggression, or infection—followed by regeneration during subsequent molting is a common behavior among decapod crustaceans. In the fossil record, however, evidence of this behavior is typically indirect and difficult to verify. In this study, we report compelling cases of autotomy, in at least one case followed by limb regeneration in Achelous monspeliensis from the Burdigalian deposits of Bicas–Foz da Fonte coastal section (Lower Miocene, Portugal). We based our analysis on one of the best collections of this crab species presently available for study. Among some specimens preserving pathological evidences, two crabs belonging to this homochelate species exhibit partial regeneration of cheliped characterized by marked dimensional asymmetry of the podomeres. The aborted regenerative sequence indicates that they died before completing the number of molts required to fully restore the limb to its original size.

Gas domes serve as some of the earliest and most persisting indicators of life on Earth, yet their documentation in continental environments remains sparse. This study aims to bridge this gap by examining gas domes within the Permian fluvial succession of Monte Luco, located in the caldera of the Bolzano Supervolcano. These structures occur as circular elevations on bedding planes. They are interpreted as resulting from gas accumulation beneath microbial mats, a hypothesis supported by comparisons with modern gas domes from both continental and intertidal environments. This microbial mediation highlights the astrobiological potential of gas domes as indicators of ancient life, although morphologically similar features are observed in non‐microbial sand substrates along the Atlantic Coast of Portugal, where they result from water expulsion processes. At Monte Luco, gas domes exhibit a rhythmic stratigraphic occurrence consisting of (1) a basal sandstone with planar lamination and trace fossils ( Planolites , Cylindrichnus ), (2) an overlying cross‐laminated sandstone and (3) a thin, uppermost horizon containing the gas domes. This upper horizon occasionally preserves tetrapod footprints, horizontal undermat‐mining burrows ( Helminthoidichnites ) and arthropod trails ( Diplopodichnus ). The lower intervals are interpreted as being formed in subaqueous conditions, while subsequent subaerial exposure facilitated microbial mat development and rapid colonisation by terrestrial fauna. The Monte Luco gas domes and published examples indicate that gas dome formation is restricted to wet, subaerially exposed substrates with microbial mats and minimal bioturbation. These findings enhance the application of gas domes as palaeoenvironmental proxies and underscore the complex interplay among microbial, sedimentary and hydrological processes in ancient volcanic landscapes.

The Special Issue Geotourism: The Tourism of Geology and Landscape has brought together a diverse set of perspectives that collectively illustrate the rapid evolution of geotourism as both a research field and a practical approach to sustainable tourism development

Museums play an essential role in preserving both cultural and natural heritage, safeguarding samples that offer invaluable insights into our history and scientific understanding. The integration of micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) has significantly advanced the study, restoration, and conservation of these priceless objects. This work explores the application of micro-CT across three critical areas of museum practice: sample virtualization, restoration assessment, and the analysis of fossil specimens. Specifically, micro-CT scanning was applied to fossils stored in the G.A.M.P.S. collection (Scandicci, Italy), enabling the creation of highly detailed non-invasive 3D models for digital archiving and virtual exhibitions. At the Opificio delle Pietre Dure in Florence, micro-CT was employed to evaluate fossil bone restoration treatments, focusing on the internal impact of menthol as a consolidant and its effects on the structural integrity of the material. Furthermore, micro-CT was utilized to investigate a sealed bee preserved in its cocoon within a paleosol in Costa Vicentina (Portugal), providing unprecedented insights into its internal anatomy and state of preservation, all while maintaining the integrity of the specimen. The results of this study underscore the versatility of micro-CT as a powerful non-destructive tool for advancing the fields of conservation, restoration, and scientific analysis of cultural and natural heritage. By integrating high-resolution imaging with both virtual and hands-on conservation strategies, micro-CT empowers museums to enhance research capabilities, improve preservation methodologies, and foster greater public engagement with their collections.