Description of two techniques to increase efficiency in processing and curating minute arthropods, with special reference to parasitic Hymenoptera

Abstract

We describe and illustrate two techniques for enhancing curatorial and processing efficiency as it pertains to parasitic Hymenoptera (Chalcidoidea, Cynipoidea). These techniques were developed in response not only to the massive number of parasitoids that have been acquired through various biodiversity studies, but also the difficulty in mobilizing the human resources to curate this material. The first technique uses small, crystal polystyrene boxes with tight-fitting lids to store dehydrated specimens prior to mounting. Locality information is affixed to the box and specimens are spread in a layer for ease of examination by researchers. Solutions for managing static electricity within the specimen boxes are discussed. The second involves a vacuum pump connected to a funnel with a filtration membrane and flask apparatus to rapidly dehydrate hard-bodied parasitoids (Figitidae) that are not subject to collapse during air-drying.

Emulsion Electrospinning of Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) Nanofibrous Membranes for High-Performance Triboelectric Nanogenerators

“…The working principle of the antistatic gun is based on the piezoelectric effect which consists of “two-cycle” operation. A compression trigger and two piezoelectric crystals are embedded inside the gun which generates positive ion flow when the trigger is squeezed and negative ion flow when the trigger is released. − By repeating these squeezing–releasing operations, the positive and negative charges can be induced on the target surface. The antistatic gun is usually used for deionization process or preventing electrostatic charge attracting dust onto critical samples/surfaces in the laboratories .…”

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“…Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae, Nepticulidae bicoloripes (Girault 1915e: 172) Remarks. This species was recorded from California by Gates et al (2002), without detailed locality data. Gordh (1979: 920-921) regarded Gibberella scutellata Miller, 1961 as a junior synonym of A. bicoloripes, and included the host record of Phyllonorycter lucetiella (Clemens) (as Lithocolletis lucetiella) as originally noted by Miller (1961).…”

The move to open access and growth: experience from Journal of Hymenoptera Research

“…Although there is a predominance of articles that have systematics, phylogeny, and ecology as their prime subjects, there have been several articles dealing with important, more general subjects. Gates and Buffington (2011) describe innovative techniques for processing the increasing number of parasitoid specimens that are obtained through biodiversity studies. The tools developed and provided by Seltmann et al (2012) in their article describing the Hymenoptera Anatomy Ontology represent an important milestone for the future of sustainable digital publication, allowing authors to reference their hymenopteran anatomical terminology to well-defined and illustrated anatomical concepts.…”