The variety of arthropod specimen preservation protocols has expanded greatly with the increased interest in preservation of molecular traits such as DNA sequences. While “best practices” for DNA preservation exist, practical limitations often preclude their use. To test the efficacy of propylene glycol as a DNA preservative agent, adult specimens of Cylindera lemniscata (LeConte) (Carabidae: Cicindelinae) and an Athetini sp. (Staphylinidae: Aleocharinae) were stored in 20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, and 100% propylene glycol preservative at room temperature for up to six months. With the exception of the Athetini sp. preserved in 20% propylene glycol, all other treatments yielded the targeted COI gene sequences (ca. 800 base pairs). Propylene glycol appears to be a good preservative for DNA, even at low concentrations and ambient temperatures.
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The Coleopterists Bulletin
Vol. 67 • No. 4
December 2013
Vol. 67 • No. 4
December 2013
emergence chamber
flight intercept trap
molecular studies
pitfall trap
preservative