Tiny insects or other arthropods on plants, food, fabrics, or other items.
Please include a general submission form in separate plastic bag to keep it dry.
For best results, follow these steps:
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The sample should be collected in a screw-top vial, pill container, or similar sealable container, if possible.
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Add alcohol to the container to cover the specimen.
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If the sample cannot be collected in a container, clear tape or a sticky trap can be used. Tape to clear plastic wrap or waxed paper. Please note that using tape or a sticky trap makes diagnosis more difficult as the specimen may have to be pulled off the material for microscopic examination destroying the sample in the process.
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Put the specimen in an envelope or cardboard box with newspaper for padding.
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Ship the sample to the address on the submission form.
- More detailed instructions can be found in HYG-2121-12, Submitting Insect Specimens for Identification.
The CWEPPDC does not examine vacuum cleaner bags or items containing body fluids or skin as the laboratory does not handle medical waste materials.