Methods in Anopheles Research - MR4

Chapter 7 : Taxonomy and Systematics7.1 Methods for Collecting and Preserving MosquitoesPage 7 of 12Pinned specimens should be kept in boxes. Seal each box in a self-seal or taped closed plastic bag. Ifpossible include a sachet of Silica Gel in the bag to keep specimens dry. The bag should prevent thespecimens from being eaten by beetles, cockroaches, mites and other insects.LABELING (see FIGURE 7.1.3)Label the slide with 2 labels:Left label contains:Country, collection numberProvince, date collectedLocationCollector's nameHabitatSlide number3 4Right label contains:GenusSubgenusSpeciesPerson making the determinationLabel the adult with 2 labels. Each label should be ¼” x ½” in size or smaller.Upper label contains:Country, provinceLocationCollection NumberDate/YearLower label contains:Genus, subgenus and speciesSexPerson making the determinationSTORING, PACKING AND SHIPPINGSTORING. All preserved adults and all supplies used for the preservation of adults must be stored in adry pest-proof box to protect them from mold and insects. A simple cardboard shipping box sealed in aplastic bag or beem capsules in individual sealed plastic bags with a drying agent placed inside theplastic bags or air-tight wood, pest-proof box can be used to store the material. The vials with ethanolshould be kept in a cool place. The vials should be packed neatly in cardboard containers of a convenientsize or wrapped together in paper towelling in bundles of 20 to 50. Vials containing alcohol should havethe tops tightly sealed to prevent evaporation and be packed in small cardboard boxes. Microscopeslides should be stored in slide boxes with the cover-slip parallel to the surface of the storage shelf toreduce the risk of slippage in cases where the mounting media is not 100% dry.PACKING AND SHIPPING. Material should be shipped as soon as possible for final processing andmounting. Do not let large quantities accumulate but send it in small parcels. Be sure to include thecollection forms with the preserved specimens.