Piñatas of the desert: a collection of 1/10 scale models of late Jurassic Mexican marine reptiles

A decade of investigation of marine Upper Jurassic sediments in north-east Mexico has yielded a hitherto unknown marine reptile assemblage. Some of the specimens, including holotypes, are kept in collection at the Museo del Desierto, Saltillo, Coahuila, Mexico. On the occasion of the 10th anniversary of this institution, it was decided to create 3D life restorations of these animals (dubbed 'pinatas') at a 1/10 scale, consistent with current research about anatomy and life-style, using a variety of techniques and a restricted budget. The impact on the public is real and rewarding.