I have to identify gelatinous zooplankton preserved in formalin 5%. Before the identification, the formalin is replaced by water, but some formalin might be adhered to the walls of organisms. How to avoid its evaporation without damage the sample? Thanks!
Hello Marina,
Neutralization of formalin can be brought about by hydrogen peroxide but I am not sure whether it will damage the specimens. The following link may give you some idea:
There are many commercial products available to neutralize formaldehyde or formalin in the effluent discharged from labs or plants but I am not entirely sure about their efficacy in your specified case.
Regards,
Dr. Abhishek Mukherjee
You should use Lugol. Lugol reduce damaging your zooplankton sample than formalin. You can also use buffered formalin 10% or 5%.
Many thanks for all the answers!
As the samples were preserved in formalin and my concern is to be exposed to its vapour, I will try to soak the samples in water for a few hours, replacing the water.
Abhishek Mukherjee, I am afraid of samples being damaged, do you know the concentration of hydrogen peroxide I should use? (I can not get the article you suggested).
Best wishes,
Marina
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