Methods for dissecting dry insects and insects preserved in fixative solutions or by refrigeration

The methods described in this paper for the dissection of dry and preserved insects have been used for several years on various species, mainly mosquitos. In the past, dry or partially dry mosquitos found in traps or in the laboratory had to be discarded. By softening these insects in a detergent solution, however, it is possible to make most observations in the same way as on fresh material. The preservation of insects in the dry state, in a fixative, or in the refrigerator after collection enables much larger samples to be studied; the whole of the material can be examined and the work can be done when time permits. In addition, material can be sent to central laboratories far from the place of collection, and infected insects can be kept in stock for teaching purposes.