Sorting, Recording, Preservation and Storage of Biological Samples

Abstract

This chapter describes the most important operations related to the sorting, recording, preservation and storage of biological samples on board a research vessel. The primary aim is to provide information on the sequence of events following collection of biological samples, from the organization of a sorting station on board to the shipping of samples after a voyage. For most activities we provide a number of recommendations that are based on the direct experience of the authors during ship-based expeditions around the world, and give guidance and indicate the ‘best practices’ for situations and problems that may occur while in the field. Specific attention has been devoted to the sorting and processing of different types of samples, with a focus on larger organisms that are individually sorted, photographed and fixed during a research voyage.