About these specimens: All from the same stillborn litter out of the Central Valley. Some were albino, others normal, most had had significant spinal deformities. They were miscarried because the mother became stressed when being transported. Diaphonization, also known as "clearing and staining," is a technique developed in the mid-20th century for visualizing the internal structures of small animals, especially vertebrates. The process involves making specimens translucent by treating them with chemical agents that dissolve fats and render tissues see-through. Dyes are then used to selectively stain bones and cartilage, allowing scientists to study skeletal structures and developmental anatomy without dissection. Initially used for scientific research, diaphonization has also gained popularity in art and educational displays due to its visually striking appearance.
