[NHCOLL-L:3745] Liquid-preserved charophytes

[Deborah A Lewis]

We have recently acquired for deposit in ISC more than 100 bottles of 
liquid-preserved charophytes (Chara, Nitella and Tolypella -- 
stoneworts) that in part are vouchers for a study done in the 1970s. 
I haven't checked for sure, but I think that the preservative is FAA. 
The amount of liquid remaining in the bottles varies -- some bottles 
are (nearly) full, some samples are completely dried out, and others 
are at levels in between. I am looking for suggestions on how these 
samples should be handled. Should they simply be topped-off? And if 
so, with what? Should the preservative currently in the bottles be 
decanted as much as possible and replaced with ethanol? (if so, what 
is the recommended percent ethanol?) Or with 70% ethanol/1% 
glycerol/water or some other preservative? Should the samples be 
"rinsed" with ethanol and then bottles filled with ethanol or some 
other preservative?

Thanks in advance for any help with this!
Deb Lewis


Deborah Lewis, Curator
Ada Hayden Herbarium    Phone: 515-294-9499
340 Bessey Hall         FAX:  515-294-1337
Iowa State University           Email: dlewis at iastate.edu
Ames, IA  50011-1020