Question

Which is not required for the preservation of insect? (a) Collecting (b) Killing (c) Pinning (d) Pressing

Short answer

The option not required for the preservation of insects is (d) Pressing.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the process

The standard procedure for insect preservation involves several steps. First, the insect is collected from its habitat. Once collected, most often, insects must be killed before the preservation process can begin. Then the insects are pinned, which helps to maintain the shape and condition of the insect during preservation. There are other preservation methods used depending on the type of the insect.

Identifying the odd one

Out of the four options presented, (a) Collecting, (b) Killing, (c) Pinning and (d) Pressing, all but one are generally considered standard steps in the process of insect preservation. ‘Pressing’-is usually associated with the preservation of plant specimens, not insects. Typically, insects are never pressed as it would damage their bodily structures.

Key concepts

Biological Specimen Collection

In the field of biology, particularly in the study of wildlife and natural history, the collection of biological specimens is a critical first step. Collecting insects, for example, provides researchers with physical samples to observe and record critical data about insect diversity, behavior, evolution, and ecology. It's a rigorous process that involves ethical and careful harvesting to avoid harming the ecosystem.

The art of specimen collection isn't as simple as catching and containing; it involves planning and knowledge of the target species' habitat and behavior. Collectors use a variety of tools and methods, such as nets, traps, and baits, to collect insects without causing unnecessary harm or stress. Each technique is chosen based on the size, mobility, and environment of the insect. Essential to insect collection is an understanding of the legal and ethical considerations, as many species are protected or endangered.

In entomology, detailed field notes accompany the collected specimens. These notes can include the date, location, weather conditions, plant associations, and behavior observed at the time of collection. This information is crucial for research and often accompanies the specimens into collections for further study.

Entomology

Entomology is the scientific study of insects and their relationship to humans, the environment, and other organisms. It's a discipline that encompasses a vast array of sub-specialties, such as taxonomy, which is the classification of insects, and ecology, which studies how they interact with their surroundings.

As the most diverse group of animals on Earth, insects play essential roles in ecosystems, such as pollination, decomposition, and as a part of the food web. Entomologists also explore the impact of insects on agricultural processes, studying both beneficial insects that assist in pollination and pest species that threaten crops. Conservation entomology is another critical area where researchers work to protect endangered species and maintain biodiversity.

Entomologists rely heavily on collected specimens to conduct research and often curate extensive collections. These collections serve not only as a record of insect diversity but also as a reference for species identification and a repository for potentially valuable genetic information. In the context of our exercise, entomology demonstrates the importance of proper specimen collection and preservation to ensure valuable data can be obtained and used in scientific studies.

Specimen Preparation

The preparation of biological specimens is a meticulous process that underscores the importance of preserving the integrity of the specimen for future research. In the context of insects, after collection and humane euthanization, specimens undergo preparation that may include setting, pinning, and labeling.

Setting is the process of positioning an insect's appendages in a lifelike posture. Pinning is the next step, where a specialized pin is used to mount the insect, usually through its thorax, onto a foam board. This is a delicate process, as it needs to support the specimen without causing damage to its body, especially the more delicate parts like the antennae or wings. Small insects that are too tiny to be pinned are typically mounted on card points or in small vials.

• Properly spaced labels are added below the pinned specimens, detailing crucial information such as the species name, collection location, and date.
• Specimens should be protected from physical damage, light, and pests, commonly being stored in airtight cases with protective chemicals.
• For scientific accuracy, the specimens are often compared against already identified specimens to ensure correct identification.

Preparation is vital for long-term preservation, enabling specimens to be used for educational purposes, research, and reference. The answer in our exercise, 'pressing,' is not a technique used for insects, as it would lead to the destruction of their three-dimensional structure, which is crucial for their identification and study.