preservation of insects without using naphthalene

[Richard Worth]

Hi Cathy,
The use of Vapona, as suggested by Jonathan, works very well.  There 
are still some possible long term health effects, though, with any 
pesticide. However, it is important that the specimen drawers have 
tight fitting lids and that the cabinets are sealed or infestation 
could always be a problem.  Some museums also have dedicated freezers 
and cycle the specimen drawers through on a regular schedule.  One 
should also freeze specimens BEFORE they are incorporated into a drawer 
or one could introduce an infestation.  Possibly a combination of 
different approaches.
Hope that helps a little,  Rich


On Oct 31, 2005, at 12:09 AM, Cathy Young wrote:

> Dear Colleagues
>
> I am the curator of a large museum of pinned insects. At present we are
> canvassing alternative methods of pinned insect preservation without 
> using
> naphthalene. Our collection of approximately 100,000 specimens is 
> currently
> housed in metal cabinets and drawers with naphthalene as the principal
> insect repellant. Has anyone on the list had any experience of 
> switching to
> an alternative repellant or means of preservation, especially with a 
> large
> collection?
>
> Cheers
>
>
> Dr Cathy Young
> Department of Primary Industries, Water and Environment
> Hobart
> Tasmania
>
>
>
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Richard Worth
Oregon Dept. of Agriculture
Plant Division
503-986-6461
rworth at oda.state.or.us
http://www.oregon.gov/ODA/index.shtml



 
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