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How to Photograph and ID Specimens

Started By jdsaunders1390 , Mar 24 2017 2:37 PM

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2 replies to this topic

#1 Offline jdsaunders1390 - Posted March 24 2017 - 2:37 PM

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86 posts

LocationCentral Florida

This is not about queen ID, but rather close visualization of workers. Would like to ID some colonies close to my house just to practice IDing and to learn more about my local species. I am wondering if there is a method to kill or immobilize workers long enough to look at their anatomy to ID species. I have tried freezing them, but the ants typically ball up afterwards, which makes the process more difficult.
Also, what do you guys use to visualize soecimens? A dissecting scope? A magnifying glass? A regular microscope on a low power objective?
Any help would be appreciated! (:

#2 Offline Jelly - Posted March 24 2017 - 2:41 PM

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129 posts

LocationCalifornia

You can try a sealed jar with a few drops of ethyl acetate (nail polish remover) on a piece of paper or a cotton ball

T.C. likes this

#3 Offline Antking117 - Posted March 24 2017 - 10:36 PM

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405 posts

LocationOmaha, Nebraska, USA

Drew would be the perfect person to ask about this, he seems to be really good and quick at it.. *not saying drew is the only one, just saying he seems to be on top of it*