Trehalose for tissue/DNA preservation

[Dave Carmean]

We are interested in using Trehalose to preserve small insects for both
morphological and DNA sequence studies.  We will be collecting thrips as
part of our field work in Australia. 

As we understand it, one adds 15% (by volume) trehalose [D(+) Trehalose]
to water, and then places the test organism in the trehalose-water mixture
and air dries the mixture.  

We will appreciate any suggestions or warnings.

Thank you,
Dave Carmean                     carmean at sfu.ca
Bernard Crespi Laboratory        (604) 291-5625
Biological Sciences               FAX  291-3496
Simon Fraser University          
Burnaby, BC  CANADA V5A 1S6