FISH PRESERVATION TECHNIQUES
Some basic information:
1. Specimens get preserved in 10-15%
formalin (formaldehyde in water)
2. Streamside preservation is usually
most convenient and helps to prevent fish from decaying before taken back
into the laboratory.
Steps in Preservation:
1. Place fish in closed container
of formalin and allow it to soak for five to seven days.
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Preserving fish while still partially alive
aids in circulating the formalin throughout the body and allows for quicker
and more successful fixations.
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Larger fish may require a slit to be made
along their ventral side to ensure that the formalin reaches the internal
regions of the specimen.
2. Remove fish
from formalin and transfer to water for rinsing purposes.Allow
the fish to soak in water for approximately 24-48 hours.
3. Transfer specimen to a closed
glass jar filled with 70% ethanol. Isopropanol is used as a preservative
in other museums, however Juniata's museum specimens should all be kept
in ethanol.
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Ethanol helps preserve markings and colorations
on specimens.
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It also is good for later histological observations
because it preserves the tissues more effectively.
4. Obtain a
proper label form from the museum and clearly label the preserved specimen
in ink that will not smear in ethanol. Typed labels are preferred
however clearly printed labels are acceptable.
Saftey Information:
1. Formalin contains formalydehyde,
a potentially hazardous chemical.
-
Wear goggles when dealing with formalin
in the lab.
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Do NOT reach into a bottle of formalin with
bare hands. Wear proper gloves.
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Be aware that putting live fish into a bottle
of formalin will cause the fish to splash. Put fish into the solution
and immediately close the lid to prevent any eye or skin injuries.
2. Ethanol
is highly flammable. Keep bottles away from open flames.
3. If a large spill of either formalin
or ethanol were to occur, use the Chemical Spill Supplies bucket in the
lab and report it to someone of authority.
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