02 September, 2024

Scorpion taxidermy - How should you preserve scorpions for research and exhibition

 


Victoria Trang published a very useful article this weekend on scorpion taxidermy. Preserving scorpion specimens in a correct and durable way is essential both for taxonomy science and for other purposes like exhibitions etc. 

Victoria discusses the different techniques of taxidermy and propose guidance for optimal preservation depending on the purpose of the specimen in question. This article should be of great interest both for professionals and scorpion enthusiasts that want to preserve their scorpions after their death.

Abstract:
Scorpions hold a renowned status as iconic creatures across numerous cultures in the world. Traditionally preserved as desiccated specimens for educational purposes, they have been exhibited in museums and pedagogic collections, serving as concrete epistemological conduits for public education on biodiversity. However, these specimens frequently lack meticulous organization, potentially misrepresenting the animals’ ethological characteristics. This brief article aims to offer paradigmatic guidance for taxidermy of scorpions, ensuring a more accurate depiction of their in vivo habitus, achievable through the use of readily obtainable tools and undemanding techniques.

Reference:
Tang V. Methodologies for dry fixation and taxidermy of education-oriented scorpion specimens. Euscorpius. 2024(395):1-24. [Open Access]

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