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MUSEUM TECHNIQUES

1. Distinguish between a herbarium and museum

Herbarium is a store house of collected plant specimens that are dried, pressed and preserved on sheets. Museums have collections of preserved plant and animal specimens for study and reference.

2. Name any five traps used for collection of insects

Methods of collecting includes ;

1. Hand picking – This method is suitable for large animals  or insects . However this method is tedious and slow .
2. Betting – Involves use of nets to collect insects  (anthropods )  and aquatic animals . There are various types of nets  ie sweep nets  made of long sticks tied to a net. It is used to collect small animals especially insects
3. Butterfly net –They are made of mosquito nets. Are used for catching butterflies in flight,
4. Pond nets,
5. Drag nets,
6. Dip nets. They are used for catching water specimens
7. Beating trays – used to collect insects  which rest on  branches . it is held under a branch  which is then beaten with a stick .for collecting land animals ,the following methods are used
8. Trapping baits are used which attract animals towards traps  where they will be trapped. Traps normally work well  at night  and in the absence of the collector . There are many types of traps Sticky traps –for collecting insects that are active  at day and night . They consist of a cylinder  covered with a sticky substance
9. Light trap – these consist of a bright bulb  placed  inside a standard  special container  . It is normally used for  nocturnal insects
10. Water traps – consists of shallow trays  of water . The inside of such trays is painted white or yellow to make it attractive . few drops of a detergent   are added to water  to break the surface tension so that the insect  may sink

3. List the main steps  followed in preparation of bone for preservation

• Bones may be preserved and stored separately or in a   reconstituted form into a skeleton

Materials require for preservation of bone

• Knife
• Cotton bag
• Concentrated ammonia
• Household ammonia
• Sodium hypochloride (full strength)
• Commercial hydrogen peroxide
• Carbon tetrachloride

Procedure

• Remove all the flesh and separate bones from left and right side of the body
• Soak in water to remove blood
• Put them in small bags that can close
• Put in boiling water for 2-3hrs depending on the age and size of the animal
• Use   potassium carbonate 2.5g/l in  water to remove tendons  
• Add   carbon tetrachloride and add alittle kerosene –these will degrease the fat in the bones after they dry
• Add hydrogen peroxide to whittenthe bones.
• keep the bones in cool dry place to dry slowly

4. Explain the following methods of preservation of stuffed specimens  in museum techniques

Preserving stuffed specimens in museums involves various techniques to ensure their long-term stability, protection from decay, and aesthetic presentation. Here’s an explanation of some common methods of preservation. Each of these preservation techniques requires skill, expertise, and adherence to ethical guidelines and legal regulations to ensure the respectful treatment of animal specimens and their long-term preservation for scientific study, education, and public appreciation in museums.

1. Taxidermy: Taxidermy is the art of preparing, stuffing, and mounting animal specimens for display. It involves carefully preserving the animal’s skin, feathers, fur, or scales and placing them over a mannequin or armature to recreate the natural form and posture of the animal. Taxidermy techniques often include:

• Skinning: The animal’s skin is carefully removed, ensuring minimal damage to the underlying tissues and structures.
• Preservation: The skin is treated with chemicals like formaldehyde or a mixture of borax and alum to prevent decay and deter insect infestation.
• Mounting: The preserved skin is placed over a mannequin or armature made of materials like wire, foam, or clay. The mannequin is sculpted to mimic the shape and posture of the animal, ensuring a lifelike appearance.
• Detailing: The taxidermist adds eyes, teeth, claws, and other features to enhance the realism of the mounted specimen. Natural habitats or artificial props may also be included to create a more immersive display.

1. Freeze-drying: Freeze-drying, also known as lyophilization, is a preservation technique used primarily for small animals, such as insects, reptiles, or birds. It involves rapidly freezing the specimen and then subjecting it to a vacuum chamber where frozen water is converted directly into vapor without passing through the liquid phase. This process helps to remove moisture from the specimen while preserving its structure and appearance. Freeze-drying can retain the natural colors, textures, and details of the specimen and is particularly useful for fragile or delicate species.
2. Skeletal Preparation: Skeletons are commonly displayed in museums as they provide valuable insights into an animal’s anatomy. Skeletal preparation involves the cleaning, articulation, and preservation of the bones. The process typically includes:

• Cleaning: The flesh and connective tissues are carefully removed from the bones. This can be done through maceration (soaking in water to allow bacterial decomposition), dermestid beetle colonies (where beetles feed on flesh), or other specialized techniques.
• Degreasing: The cleaned bones are often subjected to a degreasing process to remove residual fats and oils. This can involve soaking the bones in a solvent such as acetone or using enzymes specifically designed for bone cleaning.
• Articulation: Once the bones are clean and dry, they are carefully assembled and connected using wire, glue, or other techniques. Attention is given to recreating the natural alignment and positioning of the skeleton.
• Preservation: Depending on the desired appearance and long-term stability, the skeleton may be further treated with preservatives or coatings. This can help protect the bones from decay, insect damage, or environmental factors.

1. Dermoplasty: Dermoplasty, also known as dermoplastics or mummification, is a technique used for the preservation of larger animal specimens. It involves the removal of internal organs and tissues, followed by the replacement of these structures with synthetic materials, such as foam or fiberglass, to maintain the overall shape and volume of the animal. Dermoplasty is often employed for the preservation of large mammals, such as elephants or whales, allowing them to be displayed in a lifelike manner.
2. Preparation of animal skull

Preparing an animal skull for display in a museum involves several steps ,as outlined below, to ensure its preservation, stability, and aesthetic presentation. Nonetheless, throughout the preparation process, it’s essential to adhere to ethical guidelines and legal regulations regarding the collection and display of animal specimens, respecting the conservation status and cultural significance of the species involved.

• Cleaning: The skull is first cleaned to remove any flesh, tissue, or debris. This can be done by carefully scraping or cutting away the remaining soft tissues using scalpels, forceps, or other appropriate tools. It’s important to exercise caution and follow safety guidelines during this process.
• Degreasing: Animal skulls often contain natural oils or fats that can lead to deterioration or attract pests. To remove these substances, the skull is typically subjected to a degreasing process. This can involve soaking the skull in a solvent such as acetone or using a degreasing agent specifically designed for bone cleaning.
• Bleaching: After degreasing, the skull is often bleached to achieve a clean, white appearance. This step helps to remove any remaining stains, discoloration, or pigments. A mild solution of hydrogen peroxide is commonly used for bleaching. It’s important to monitor the bleaching process carefully to avoid overexposure, which could weaken the bone structure.
• Drying: Once the skull is cleaned and bleached, it needs to be thoroughly dried. This can be achieved by allowing it to air dry in a well-ventilated area or using gentle heat sources like low-temperature ovens or desiccation chambers. Proper drying ensures that the skull is stable and less susceptible to mold or microbial growth.
• Repair and Stabilization: If the skull has any cracks, fractures, or missing parts, repairs may be necessary. Specialized adhesives or bone fillers can be used to restore the skull’s structural integrity. In cases of missing teeth, replicas or original teeth from the same species can be carefully reattached.
• Mounting: The mounted skull is positioned in a way that showcases its key features and allows for easy observation. Depending on the desired display style, the skull can be mounted on a display stand, attached to a wall mount, or incorporated into a diorama or exhibit.
• Labeling: Each mounted skull is labeled with relevant information, such as the species name, origin, collection date, and any other important data. The label provides visitors with valuable context and facilitates scientific study and documentation.
• Display and Storage: The prepared skull can be placed on exhibit in a museum gallery, providing an educational and aesthetic experience for visitors. It may also be stored in a designated collection area, following appropriate storage conditions, such as controlled temperature and humidity, to ensure its long-term preservation.

6. Describe the use of a killing jar  in  the preservation of a museum specimens.

After collection, specimens are to be kept in a killing jar to protect them against struggling out. The standard killing jar should contain  potassium cyanide ; the jar should also have  a covering  because these chemical is poisonous to handle . Also ether or chloroform can be used in a killing jar . Large winged insects should be wrapped in an envelop paper  to prevent damage of wings  then place in jars

7. List any four chemicals used in preserving animal species in a museum.

• Formaldehyde: Formaldehyde is a widely used preservative and disinfectant in museums. It is effective in preventing decay and inhibiting the growth of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms. Formaldehyde is often used as a preservation fluid in jars or as a component in embalming solutions for taxidermy specimens.
• Ethanol: Ethanol, also known as ethyl alcohol, is frequently used as a preservation agent for small animal specimens. It acts as a dehydrating agent, effectively removing moisture from the tissues and preventing decay. Ethanol is commonly used in various concentrations, such as 70% or 95%, depending on the specimen and desired preservation method.
• Glycerin: Glycerin, or glycerol, is a chemical that is commonly used in the preservation of aquatic specimens. It functions as a softening and moisturizing agent, helping to maintain the flexibility and texture of the specimen. Glycerin is often used in combination with formaldehyde or ethanol to create preservation solutions for fishes, marine invertebrates, or other water-dwelling animals.
• Borax: Borax, also known as sodium borate, is used as a preservative and insecticide in museum settings. It helps protect specimens from insect infestation and acts as a deterrent to pests that might damage or consume organic material. Borax is often used as a powder or dissolved in water to create solutions that are applied to specimens or used in the preservation of bones and skeletons.

NB: specific chemicals used for preserving animal species can vary depending on the type of specimen, its size, the desired preservation method, and the museum’s protocols and regulations. Additionally, proper safety precautions and guidelines should always be followed when handling and working with these chemicals.

8. Describe mounting of museum specimen in a museum jar

Mounting a museum specimen in a museum jar involves the careful preparation and preservation of the specimen for display or study. Here’s a description of the mounting process:

• Selection of Specimen: A suitable specimen is chosen based on its relevance, rarity, scientific significance, or aesthetic value. It can be an animal, plant, insect, or any other object that warrants preservation and display in a museum.
• Preservation and Preparation: The specimen needs to be preserved properly to prevent decomposition or decay. This can involve various methods such as taxidermy (for animals), drying or pressing (for plants), or chemical preservation (for insects or other small organisms).
• Cleaning and Treatment: Before mounting, the specimen is cleaned to remove any dirt, dust, or extraneous material that may be present. Depending on the nature of the specimen, specific cleaning techniques and solutions may be used to ensure its integrity and appearance. For example, delicate feathers or fur may require gentle brushing or blowing air to remove debris.
• Positioning and Mounting: The specimen is carefully positioned within a glass jar or container, ensuring that its important features or characteristics are visible and well-displayed. The jar can be filled with a preservation fluid, such as alcohol or formaldehyde, depending on the type of specimen and the desired preservation method.
• Fixing and Securing: To prevent movement or damage, the specimen is fixed in place using appropriate techniques. For example, wires or pins may be used to secure insects or small animals, while adhesive or mounting putty can be applied to hold fragile plant parts or delicate structures.
• Support and Aesthetics: Additional materials may be used to enhance the presentation and stability of the specimen. These can include natural or artificial supports, such as foam or wire, that provide a suitable backdrop or framework for the specimen. The arrangement of the specimen within the jar can be adjusted to create an aesthetically pleasing display.
• Labeling: Each mounted specimen is labeled with essential information to provide context and identification. The label typically includes details such as the scientific name, common name (if applicable), collection location, date, collector’s name, and any other relevant information. The label is often attached to the jar or container, ensuring it is easily visible and accessible.
• Sealing and Preservation: Once the specimen is properly mounted and labeled, the jar or container is sealed to prevent contamination or leakage. This can be achieved through various means, such as using airtight lids, wax seals, or specialized closures. The preservation fluid within the jar helps maintain the specimen’s integrity and prevents decay or deterioration.
• Display and Storage: The mounted specimen can be placed on exhibit in a museum gallery or stored in a designated collection area, depending on its purpose and importance. In the case of display, the jar may be placed on a suitable stand or platform to showcase the specimen effectively. Proper storage conditions, including temperature, humidity, and lighting, are maintained to ensure the long-term preservation of the specimen.

Mounting specimens in museum jars allows for their safe preservation, study, and exhibition. It enables scientists, researchers, and the public to observe and appreciate the natural world, fostering knowledge, education, and the conservation of biodiversity.

9. Describe the precautions taken in the storage of museum specimens

• Specimens should be kept in appropriate conditions to prevent damage by  light , moisture   fungi or insects
• Specimens labels should always by correctly placed so that they do not detouched  or damaged  during storage
• Correct filling and record keeping should be maintained so as not to lose any important information concerning the specimen