Advice requested.

Here you can discuss sample and specimen preparation issues.
Post Reply
Message
Author
Greg Howald
Posts: 1185
Joined: Tue Oct 20, 2020 6:44 am

Advice requested.

#1 Post by Greg Howald » Wed Mar 24, 2021 1:37 am

I figure that title ought to work because everybody's always got advice.
It's spring. That means the park reopened and I have access to pond water. I got the water. I fed the critters and there are a lot of them. I have essential tremor in my hands and these guys don't necessarily pose for pictures. They are faster than I can deal with.
I need to kill them so I can get decent photos. So.....
What can I use to do that without destroying them?
Thanks in advance. Greg

Shivs
Posts: 99
Joined: Wed Mar 10, 2021 11:24 pm
Location: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Re: Advice requested.

#2 Post by Shivs » Wed Mar 24, 2021 2:36 am

Slow them down with methyl cellulose? Or create a thicker solution with xantham gum, it can prevent them from moving and they will live for awhile (they do eventually die)

Greg Howald
Posts: 1185
Joined: Tue Oct 20, 2020 6:44 am

Re: Advice requested.

#3 Post by Greg Howald » Wed Mar 24, 2021 4:12 am

Thanks so much. I appreciate it. It means I go from frustration to enjoyment. I really appreciate having this knowledge.
Greg

Shivs
Posts: 99
Joined: Wed Mar 10, 2021 11:24 pm
Location: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Re: Advice requested.

#4 Post by Shivs » Wed Mar 24, 2021 4:19 am

Well that's the first time I've actually helped anyone :) I just started microscopy about a month ago so I'm glad I can contribute. Link for cheap xantham gum below. 2.5g of powder to 125 ml of water seems to be a good amount, if you want them to be not moving maybe a bit thicker.

https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B06ZYBTSVQ?ref ... b_ap_share

Greg Howald
Posts: 1185
Joined: Tue Oct 20, 2020 6:44 am

Re: Advice requested.

#5 Post by Greg Howald » Wed Mar 24, 2021 4:33 am

Got it. Thanks
Greg

Post Reply