[NHCOLL-L:1318] amphibian euthanasia agents compromising tissue conservation...

[josh butler]

Greetings,
Currently I'm involved with putting together an internal manuscript for 
procedures in the Museum of Southwestern Biology.  When I got to the 
euthanasia of amphibians, my experience had told me to look for 
alternatives.  Just for the purpose of euthanasia, it is suggested by the 
AVMA to use a Benzoic acid (ethyl p-aminobenzoate).  My question to the 
group is, has anyone considered/researched whether or not this may 
compromise tissue preservation.  Are there references in the natural history 
collections literature that discuss euthanasia methods vs. preservation 
integrity.
I have considered other alternatives, and in my experience (animal 
technician @ UC Berkeley) Benzoic acid has been the cheapest and most humane 
method of euthanasia for amphibians.  However, my experience is limited and 
admit that my research into this topic is still ongoing.  I appreciate any 
information you can forward my way.

Joshua A. Butler
Undergraduate Biology        Curatorial Assistant
University of New Mexico     Museum of Southwestern Biology
Albuquerque, New Mexico      (505)277-5130
cell:(505)301-3816           boiga13 at hotmail.com

"To knock a limpet from the rock does not even take cunning, that lowest 
power of the mind." -- Charles Darwin


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