"Drawer" - what is it, definition of the term
A drawer is a recessed, pull‑out compartment integrated into furniture or laboratory cabinets, intended for organized storage of objects; in entomology it functions as a sealed container for preserving specimens such as ticks, bugs, lice, and fleas, typically featuring smooth interior surfaces and optional ventilation to prevent damage.
Detailed information
A pull‑out compartment designed for entomological specimens provides a sealed environment that protects delicate arthropods from desiccation and contamination. The interior is typically lined with acid‑free paper or foam inserts, allowing individual ticks, true bugs, lice, and fleas to be positioned without physical damage. Transparent covers enable visual inspection while maintaining a controlled atmosphere.
Key design elements include:
- Material composition: High‑density polyethylene or stainless steel ensures resistance to moisture and chemical exposure.
- Sealing mechanism: Silicone gaskets create an airtight closure, preserving humidity levels required for long‑term storage.
- Labeling system: Integrated slots for barcode tags or handwritten labels facilitate rapid cataloging and retrieval.
- Modular configuration: Units can be stacked or mounted within a larger cabinet, optimizing laboratory space.
Operational guidelines:
- Prior to placement, specimens should be fixed in ethanol or pinned according to standard taxonomic protocols.
- Each organism is placed in a separate compartment or on a designated insert to prevent cross‑contamination.
- The compartment is closed immediately after labeling; temperature should be kept between 20 °C and 25 °C, with relative humidity maintained at 70 %–80 %.
- Periodic inspection (monthly) verifies seal integrity and checks for signs of mold or pest ingress.
The storage solution also supports auxiliary equipment such as micro‑drawers for reagents, small trays for microscope slides, and lockable fronts for security. By adhering to these specifications, researchers ensure that ticks, bugs, lice, and fleas remain viable for morphological analysis, genetic sequencing, and long‑term reference collections.