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Post by papilio28570 on Aug 10, 2019 4:25:24 GMT -8
I used cyanide years ago and discontinued after the first year. I quickly learned that even in a well ventilated area, even out in the field while collecting, the slightest whiff of the vapor from the jar would produce an instant sharp headache. It is extremely dangerous and I wonder that long term exposure to sub-symptomatic levels over years may also be problematic. I do not encourage anyone to use it.
That said, here in the USA, obtaining a commercial ground applicators pesticide license in any state will allow you to purchase restricted use chemicals in the state that issued you the license. Apply for the training through your county Agriculture Extension Agent.
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Post by mothman27 on Aug 13, 2019 3:38:20 GMT -8
Out of curiosity, has anyone used isopropyl alchohol in a killing jar?
Personally, these are the methods I employ: Most butterflies - Pinch Lycaenidae - EA kill jar Beetles - EA kill jar or freeze or drop in isopropyl Large moths - inject with isopropyl alchohol Small moths - EA kill jar Other insects - freeze of kill jar
What percent of isopropyl do you use? I remember reading that the high concentrations can make DNA work more difficult, is this true? I have %70 and %99 on hand. I also just bought enough EA to last me several years. I have never used EA as an injection agent as I figured it would stain wings as it sometimes does to specimens left in the kill jar too long. Overall I like EA and I don't see a bit of stiffness unless left in the jars for several days. However, freezing moths will sometimes give me specimens so tough to pin I just can't. I used to freeze all my bugs to kill them but I see now pinning could have been much easier than it was if I had a better killing method.
Tim
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