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ARS Home » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #84791
Title: COLLECTING AND PRESERVING INSECTS AND MITES: TECHNIQUES AND TOOLS

Author
item Schauff, Michael

Submitted to: Systematic Entomology Laboratory World Wide Web Site
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 2/1/1998
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary: Insects and mites are major pests of crops in the U.S. and throughout the world. Study of these important animals requires expertise in collecting and preserving specimens in a way that allows them to be used effectively by scientists. This paper summarizes methods and tools used to collect and preserve insects and mites for a wide varity of purposes. This information will be used by both professionals, such as insect identifiers with APHIS/PPQ, and amateurs such as high school and college students, Boy Scouts, and farmers.

Technical Abstract: The manual summarizes a wide array of techniques and tools used to collect and preserve insects and mites. The first section is an in-depth discussion of the equipment and tools used by collectors in the field and laboratory. Detailed instructions on how to build or modify equipment are given. The second part of the manual details the many techniques, chemicals, and solutions used to preserve insect and mite specimens. There is also a detailed account of labelling, storage, and shipping methods.