Re: Insect deterrents in entomology collections

[Gretchen Anderson]

It is best to avoid pesticides completely.   PDB is a pesticide with health risks for both staff and the collection. While I have never used camphor, I would be concerned about it also, especially in combination with residues from formerly used pesticides. Entomology collections can be successfully  frozen, following standard  IPM protocols (double bagging, -20 deg C.).  That, together with monitoring, and good housekeeping should keep your collection safe. 

Good luck

Gretchen Anderson
Conservator
Science Museum of Minnesota
651-221-4764
gander...@smm.org
www.smm.org

----- Original Message -----
From: "Forrest St. Aubin" <forr...@saintaubinbce.com>
To: pestlist@museumpests.net
Sent: Wednesday, January 14, 2009 11:10:52 AM GMT -06:00 US/Canada Central
Subject: Re: Insect deterrents in entomology collections

You might explore the use of paradichlorobenzene.  It exhibits both fumigant, as well as repellent properties.

While I no longer use it, it did not seem to crystallize out on specimens.  I would like to see input, both pro and con, on this issue from others.

Forrest E. St. Aubin, BCE

----- Original Message -----
From: "Weidenhofer, Helen (DPC-ARTS)"
To: pestlist@museumpests.net
Subject: Insect deterrents in entomology collections
Date: Wed, 14 Jan 2009 19:04:12 +1030

Our museum is no longer using naphthalene in the entomology store to deter pest insects. We have adopted IPM, but are still grappling with persistent infestations of Anthrenus verbasci. It has been suggested to me that an alternative chemical method should be employed to deter pests, and someone has suggested that we include camphor inside each specimen drawer.

I would like to know if anyone is using camphor in the place of naphthalene, if it is successful at deterring insect pests, (specifically the larvae of Anthrenus verbasci), and any occupational health and safety issues associated with its use. Does camphor crystallise out on specimens and specimen containers like naphthalene? Does it cause any other problems?

Is anyone successfully using any other kind of insect deterrent chemicals with entomology collections?
Renita Ryan
Principal Conservator, Objects
Artlab Australia

Forrest E. St. Aubin, BCEChair, ESA-ACE Oversight Committee12835 Pembroke CircleLeawood, Kansas  66209Phone: 913.345.2114Fax: 913.345.8008E-mail: forr...@saintaubinbce.comWebsite: www.saintaubinbce.com

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