"Jar" - what is it, definition of the term
The sealed container is a rigid, typically cylindrical vessel crafted from glass, ceramic, or durable plastic, featuring a wide opening and a tightly fitting lid that creates an airtight closure, enabling safe storage, preservation, and transport of liquids, powders, or semi‑solid substances.
Detailed information
A glass container designed for entomological specimens provides a clear, airtight environment that protects delicate arthropods from desiccation and contamination. Its transparent walls allow visual examination without opening the seal, preserving morphological details essential for identification.
The vessel typically features a screw‑threaded metal cap equipped with a rubber liner. This combination creates a pressure‑tight closure, preventing escape of mobile stages such as nymphs or adult insects. The cap may include a small vent valve to equalize internal pressure during temperature fluctuations, reducing the risk of crack formation.
Key characteristics for storing ticks, bugs, lice, and fleas include:
- Material: Borosilicate glass resists thermal shock and chemical exposure, ensuring durability during sterilization or long‑term storage.
- Seal integrity: Dual‑locking mechanism (threaded neck plus silicone gasket) eliminates air exchange, maintaining humidity levels tailored to each species.
- Labeling area: Flat surface on the cap or side permits permanent ink or barcode attachment, facilitating cataloguing in collections.
- Size options: Volumes ranging from 30 ml to 1 L accommodate single specimens or small groups, allowing segregation by taxonomic group or collection date.
Preservation protocols often involve submerging specimens in ethanol (70–95 %) or propylene glycol before placement in the container. The solvent penetrates the exoskeleton, halting decomposition while the sealed environment prevents evaporation. For live specimens intended for short‑term observation, a moist cotton plug can be added beneath the lid to sustain humidity without compromising containment.
Cleaning procedures require disassembly of the cap, thorough rinsing with distilled water, and a brief immersion in a mild detergent solution. After rinsing, the components should be air‑dried in a dust‑free area before reassembly to avoid residue that could affect subsequent specimens.
When handling containers with potential pathogens, wear nitrile gloves and operate within a biosafety cabinet. The airtight design minimizes aerosol release, protecting laboratory personnel and the surrounding environment.