Identification & Advisory

Guidelines for Specimen Submission to Avail

Identification and Advisory Services at ZSI

1. Include a covering letter, signed by designated authorities, when shipping physical specimens.

2. All physical samples must be accompanied by the following details to aid in accurate identification

    Location of the insect collection (including state, city, and locality)

    Habitat from where the specimen was collected (e.g., dead log, leaf litter, specific plant/flower)

    Identity of the host plant/organism (inorder to identify pests or parasites)

 3. Number of samples/specimens to be identified at a time, ideally not exceeding 10.

4.  Clearly state the purpose for which the specimens are being identified.

(Bulk identifications for dissertation works will not be undertaken)

5. Only dead specimen,  properly preserved and labelled will be considered for identification

6. Soft-bodied specimens should be preserved in appropriate preservatives such as 70% ethanol, in a spill -proof container.

7. The specimen containers are to be labelled or numbered using alcohol proof and water-resistant ink. Avoid ballpoint pens.

8. Double bag the specimen container in self-sealing plastic bags to prevent leakage. Pack the container with thermocol or suitable packing material. The shipping box should be rigid to prevent container breakage.

9. Do not ship specimens in padded envelopes, as they are prone to damage during transit.

10. Dry-preserved specimens should be shipped in cartons lined with tissue paper to prevent damage from movement inside the box.

Guideline for Confiscated Animal Material for Identification