Collection and storage of invertebrate samples

• Published in: Methods in enzymology Vol. 224; p. 51
• Main Authors: Dick, M, Bridge, D M, Wheeler, W C, DeSalle, R
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 1993
• Subjects: Academies and Institutes; Animals; Biological Evolution; Caenorhabditis; DNA - isolation & purification; Drosophila; Eukaryota; Freezing; Insecta; Invertebrates; Molecular Biology - methods; Museums; Polymerase Chain Reaction - methods; Seawater; Specimen Handling - methods; Tribolium
• ISSN: 0076-6879
• DOI: 10.1016/0076-6879(93)24005-F

The validity of any comparative study is dependent on the reliability of the identification of the samples in the study. Not all researchers are experts in the field of identification of samples, nor do all researchers have quick and ready access to expert systematists who can accomplish the task of identification. The importance of verification of sample identity for comparative studies is vital. We describe several methods by which researchers can obtain and identify samples from the wild, and we suggest methods by which voucher samples can be obtained for future reference to these collected samples. We outline alternatives to collection of samples from the wild, such as purchase from stock centers and biological supply companies. Museum collections can also be extremely helpful in obtaining complete organismal samples for comparative studies.