Specimen Collection and Shipping

From Bugwoodwiki

Proper collection and shipping of specimens often make the difference between identifiable specimens and those no longer identifiable when they reach the specialists. It is important to follow the procedures listed below to ensure adequate and timely identification.

Collection:

Collect adequate material. Failure to identify a specimen is often a result of insufficient material to indicate the cause of damage.

Detection Report Forms (FS-3400-1) are provided to Ranger Districts and Supervisors' Offices for use by USDA Forest Service personnel when submitting specimens.

Provide as much information as possible.

Who collected the specimen.

Who submitted the specimen.

Date: when the specimen was collected.

Host species, age, and general appearance.

Location: legal description or the county, city, road, and address if available.

Any information you think might be related to the problem, such as the number of trees affected, any human activity that may be related, weather, or other environmental conditions.

Give your opinion concerning the identity of the problem.

Shipment:

Plant materials such as wood, bark, foliage, roots, or conks should be wrapped in paper bags or newspapers and mailed in a box.

Insects, except adult moths and butterflies, should be sent in leak-proof vials or bottles with 70 percent isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol. Place the vial or bottle in a box for mailing.

Moths and butterflies can be killed by putting them in a jar in an oven at 140 degrees F for 10 minutes or by putting them in a freezer for 15 minutes. Place the specimen between folds of a paper to keep the wings flat and pack in a box for mailing.

Mail specimens as soon as possible to prevent drying of foliage or insects, or deterioration of conks.