Fourier descriptors and their applications in biology

The purpose of this book is to introduce Fourier descriptors as a method for measuring the shape of whole, or parts, of organisms. Fourier descriptors refer to the utilization of Fourier analysis, primarily the Fourier series as a curve-fitting technique, that can numerically describe the outline (shape) of irregular structures such as are commonly found in living organisms.

The quantitative characterization of irregular forms is often a first step toward elucidation of the underlying biological processes, whether they be genetic, evolutionary, or functional.