DOI: 10.3897/contrib.entomol.75.e159632

Authors: André Silva Fernandes, Joab Cardoso Guedes, Tiago Kutter Krolow

Abstract: Entomological collections face significant challenges in storing and preserving dissected structures of insects (especially the most delicate and tiny ones). For pinned specimens, few alternatives are available to keep dissected parts along with their source specimens, with pinnable microvials commonly used. However, world suppliers for these special microvials are scarce and their cost may reasonably impact the budget of less wealthy institutions. To provide a low-cost alternative, we designed a reliable entomological dissection microvial, based on materials easily found in most local office and laboratory equipment suppliers. Our microvials are based on two main items, Polypropylene (PP) microcentrifuge tubes and Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) hot-melt glue. Their manufacturing process is very simple and is described and illustrated in detail. The proposed microvials tend to have good ability for archiving, since the materials used for their main parts (PP and EVA) show good chemical adhesion and PP microcentrifuge tubes can safely contain most common preserving solutions for an indefinite time. Their endurance was tested under normal use conditions in our collection for the past five years and materials showed no degradation. Moreover, all components are classified as non-toxic and are safe for manipulation, storage and disposal by any educational or research facility. Finally, they fit into the category of sustainable solutions once they are long-lasting, reusable and can be manufactured from used microvials that would be discharged.

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DOI: 10.3897/contrib.entomol.72.e97277

Authors: Rainer Willmann

Abstract: Lulilan obscurus gen. nov. spec. nov., Lulilan spinifer spec. nov. and Phine succinea gen. nov. spec. nov. are described as new. Lulilan obscurus and L. spinifer are the closest relatives of L. furcatus (Hardwicke, 1823). The elongated abdominal segments 7–8 and long dististyli in the males are synapomorphies of the three species, while a processus (sternal spur) at the male’s 2nd abdominal sternum is indicative of a sistergroup relationship between obscurus and spinifer. - The wings of Phine succinea are devoid of any markings. Abdominal segments 7 and 8 are distally enlarged in the male. Medigynium (female) with a medium-sized apodeme. Apodeme without laterally extending processes serving as attachment devices for musculature in other species.

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