Fluid Preservation

Preservation techniques for biological specimens have often been handed down by oral tradition rather than subjected to rigorous scrutiny and long-term evaluation. This volume is an overview of procedures, chemicals, and containers, not a how-to manual. The initial chapter provides an interesting review of the history of preservation of plant/animal specimens, ranging from ancient practices to modern DNA extraction and preservation, and summarizes knowledge about long-term/indefinite fluid preservation of organic materials. Simmons addresses the merits and drawbacks of various protocols, temperatures, preservation fluids, sealants, and container types in preventing postmortem changes in tissues. Post-fixation processing, specimen repair, transfer to newer containers and solutions, and health/safety concerns are also covered. The second half of this volume contains well-organized, extensive tables, including a copious review of the literature, ranging from DNA preservation techniques to cultural references. The largest table is arranged alphabetically by author, with columns for specimen type and helpful directions and comments. Updating much of the information found in earlier books, this well-researched volume will be a valuable addition not only for collections serving museum curators and preservationists but also botanists, zoologists, chemists, and chemical engineers. Summing Up: Highly recommended. All students, researchers/faculty, and professionals/practitioners. * CHOICE *
[This] book can be considered essential for all who are responsible for collections in liquid media. * Brazilian Herpetology *
Fluid Preservations is an astounding assemblage of what is knowable through the literature about the fine art - some say voodoo - of keeping organics preserved in chemicals. Simmons guides a reader through a history of best efforts, thereby acknowledging that readers will draw their own rational conclusions when developing best practice(s), while adhering to the caveat to always monitor, record successes and failures, and adapt if/when needed.... This is a compelling read.... * SPNHC Connection: Newsletter of the Society for the Preservation of Natural History Collections *
This examination of the science behind the fluid preservation of biological specimens is essential reading for curators and conservators alike. There is a wealth of information in this exceptionally well-researched book which is worth buying for the comprehensive reference list alone! John Simmons has also collected anecdotes and misconceptions about fluid preservation which makes his book a suitable read for those outside the small world of museum professionals. -- Simon Moore, Conservator of Natural Sciences and Cutlery Historian, The National Trust, United Kingdom
Filled with practical references and recommendations and a bibliography embracing sources from the very beginning of fluid preservation in the early 17th century to DNA preservation, this book summarizes the written knowledge on fixation, preservation,  secondary interactions of preservatives and gives valuable information on collection care by exploring available literature far beyond Anglo-American sources. It is more than just a  comprehensive reference, it embodies our knowledge of fluid preservation and conveys the most comprehensive practical advice that can be offered, from an author truly devoted to collection care.     -- Dirk Neumann, Ichthyology section, The Bavarian State Collection of Zoology, Munich, Germany
John Simmons has created the ultimate reference on the science and mythology of fluid preservation.  Thoroughly researched and written with wry wit, it is an indispensable and highly readable resource. -- Catharine Hawks, adjunct faculty, Museum Studies Program, The George Washington University