Book Review:
The Preparation and Curation of Insects

by Annette K. Walker and Trevor K. Crosby
Published by D.S.I.R. and The Entomological Society of N.Z. as D.S.I.R. Information Series 130. Obtainable from Mrs B. M. May, Distribution Sec., Entom. Soc. of N.Z., 6 Ocean View Road, Huia, Auckland, or at Government Bookshops. Price $2.50 post free.

There are many who find, at one time or another, a need to preserve insect specimens — whether for display, to send to an authority for identification, for teaching purposes or for a collection of one's own. This booklet is an inexpensive guide to the most acceptable methods for dealing with insect specimens. It was written expressly for the management of the large insect collections at Entomology Division, D.S.I.R., but its relevance and appeal extend well beyond this context. Its presentation is clear and well illustrated with simple drawings. The subject matter covers preparation and preservation of pinned specimens, specimens in alcohol, or on microscope slides with notes on specific methods for each of the major orders of insects. Standardised labelling is described and the codes employed by Entomology Division for future data retrieval are outlined. The booklet also covers organisation of collections, packaging and posting of specimens, restoration, freeze-drying of larvae and concludes with a list of suppliers of entomological material, entomological catalogues and a reference list.