Methods for Packing Preserved Specimens for Consignment

Pinned specimens should be pressed firmly into the cork or foam plastic substrate in the specimen container. Cross pins for large specimens or pins placed each side of the abdomen for small specimens should be used to prevent side movement. If there is any doubt about the cleanliness or presence of living organisms (especially psocids, beetles, and mites) then the container should be placed in the deep freeze prior to packing. Similarly, if there is a possibility that specimens received are carrying living pests it is wise to fumigate or at the very least, place in deep freeze for at least 24 hours. Take care when thawing as frozen insects are very brittle.

When consigning specimens it is best to place the closed specimen box in a plastic bag containing a little powdered naphthalene as preservative. Select a larger container, preferably rigid cardboard, with sufficient volume to hold a loose packing (shredded paper, foam etc.) material, 2-4 cm thick surrounding the bag containing the specimen box. Fill the cardboard box completely but not firmly, with packing material before sealing with adhesive tape. Containers holding specimens should always be labelled 'FRAGILE'.

Tubes containing specimens are best held in a plastic foam block, excavated to hold the specimen tube. The block with enclosed tube should then be placed in a firm container surrounded by loose packing.

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