[EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
> Hi All -
>
> Can anyone tell me what works well for chemical in vials to preserve aquatic
> insects?
> My son and I are trying to put together a good collection for our fly tying
> and also extra credit for his zoology class. Ethanol or ethyl alcohol is
> supposed to be good, but we can't find it. The local paint store comes the
> closest with denatured alcohol that is about 67% ethyl alcohol, with unknown
> other ingredients. Will this work? Also, we have been told to add a few drops
> of acetic acid to the vial, but we can't find it either. A pharmacist friend
> tells me a little white vinegar added to the alcohol will suffice as well as
> preserving color. Is there possibly a web site or an outlet for preserving
> liquid that anyone may know of?
>
> Thanks,
> Tom
Tom:
go to the liquor store and buy a bottle of 200% proof (or thereabouts) grain
alcohol.....
works swell.... and apparently a little acetic acid (white vinegar) is used for
color
preservation.... I use other mixes at times, but like to also add a bit of
glycerin, too.. I
think it helps the specimen from becoming too brittle.
commercially prepared 'bug Balmer" by Wind River flyfishing accessory products is
Isopropyl
(rubbing ) alcohol, water, and acetic acid.
their addie and number is:
3982 Rolfe Court
Wheat Ridge, Colorado 80033
(303) 422-1564
they also have "Setups" of vials and display racks, I believe....
do a little surfing, you might come up with a web site..... I haven't yet...
Splinta
