Good afternoon,
I am carrying out a monthly invertebrate sampling for future molecular studies (DNA). I am euthanizing my arthropods with 70° ethanol right after the capture and then store them in a freezer. Would it be better for DNA preservation using 96° or pure ethanol?
I have heard, but do not remember the source, that 100% alcohol/absolute alcohol can be used for DNA studies. Normally 70% alcohol is used for storage in alcohol. Some recommend 70% with 5% glycerol for long-term storage. If possible, freezing, as mentioned, is best for DNA studies. The colder the better. -18 degrees C, is standard in household freezers. Dry ice holds - 78o and can be used for short-term freezing. Liquid nitrogen is even colder, but requires special equipment.
Where I work, insects are usually killed in ethanol 70% in the field, then put in ethanol 96% once come back to the lab.
For my teachers, ethanol 96% + freezer (~ -18°C) is a very good method to conserve DNA for years.
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