Scientists Launch AI DinoTracker App That Identifies Dinosaur Footprints

DinoTracker, a new AI-powered app, analyzes dinosaur footprints using shape rather than relying on traditional labeling. Scientists developed the app to overcome the complexities of footprint identification, impacted by terrain and foot movement. The researchers trained the AI with 2,000 unlabeled footprint silhouettes. The AI analyzed eight key features of the imprints, identifying variations like toe spread and heel position. DinoTracker allows users to upload footprint silhouettes and explore similarity to others. Users can manipulate features to understand their impact on the matching process. The AI's clustering of prints aligns with expert classifications approximately 90% of the time. This novel method avoids the reliance on potentially biased historical classifications. The app provides a new tool for paleontologists and enthusiasts alike. This innovative approach is detailed in the journal PNAS.