Preserve Specimens in Custom Entomology Storage Cabinets

What are Entomology Storage Cabinets?

Entomology storage cabinets are specialized cabinets designed to store studied and researched insects. The cabinets are temperature and humidity controlled and often equipped with security features such as lockable doors and alarms. The cabinets securely seal to protect and preserve specimens from insects, rodents, light, dust, and water. Click to see more museum storage solutions.

Types of Entomology Specimens Commonly Stored

Specimens are the foundation of entomological collections and come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. The three most common types of specimens stored for entomology are pinned specimens, slide-mounted specimens, and bottled specimens.

Pinned specimens are the most common type and mount on a pin with the abdomen protruding through a circular piece of cardboard. The legs and wings spread open for ease of examining specimens.

Slide-mounted specimens are placed on a microscope slide and covered with a glass coverslip.

Bottled specimens are usually larger insects that cannot be pinned or slide mounted. They are stored in a jar or bottle with alcohol or another preservative. Specimens can be stored in a variety of ways. Still, regardless of the method used, they must be well-labeled to be appropriately identified.

How do Entomology Cabinets Protect Insect Collections?

As with all our storage cabinets, closed-cell gaskets seal the cabinet doors, and our three-point latching system ensures protection from dust and other contaminants. The doors lift off hinges making cabinets lighter and easier to move through doorways. Visit our online store to see our museum storage products.

A non-off-gassing powder-coat paint finish provides durability and a clean appearance.

Entomology Storage Cabinets are made of sturdy materials that resist warping and cracking. They feature a tight-sealing door that helps keep out dust and pests. In addition, the cabinet shelves allow air to circulate freely around the specimens, preventing them from becoming faded or brittle over time. Thanks to these features, Entomology Storage Cabinets provide an ideal environment for preserving delicate insect collections. 

How do Entomology Storage Cabinets Save Space?

Entomology drawers and shelves have minimal space between each level to ensure maximum storage capacity. In addition, these drawer and shelving cabinets use vertical space to limit the required floor space to work. Because the cabinets are tall, valuable floor space is conserved. These can also be installed on high-density compact storage systems, an excellent alternative for museums seeking a cost-effective way to increase their storage capacity.

Types of Entomology Tray Inserts

Cornell Tray Insert

Essential for proper orientation of specimens in insect drawers, unit pinning trays also are helpful for safe handling during transfer work and provide a secure mounting method for mailing purposes. These trays are chipboard covered with white paper.

Trays feature white firm foam pinning bottoms (EVA ethylene-vinyl acetate foam or EPE expanded polyethylene foam) press fitted with hot melt adhesive. A size 00 insect pin may be inserted easily without forceps and without bending the pin. The foam does not fracture, remains permanently pliable, and is unaffected by moisture.

Smithsonian Tray Insert

The Smithsonian Tray Insert is a valuable tool for entomologists, allowing them to study insects in a controlled environment. The insert consists of two trays, one with a mesh bottom and one with a solid base. Insects can be placed in the tray with the mesh bottom, and the other tray can be placed on top, creating a closed space. This closed space allows entomologists to control the temperature and humidity levels and provide a dark environment for the insects. The Smithsonian Tray Insert also has a lid, which covers the entire setup and prevents escapees. 

USNM Tray Insert

USNM Tray Insert is made of two trays, one on top, with apertures in the top tray that allow insects to enter the bottom tray. The bottom tray is filled with sand, which provides a substrate for the insects to burrow and build their nests. USNM Tray Inserts can be used with various insect species. They are an essential tool for entomologists who study the behavior and ecology of these animals.

California Style Tray Insert

The California Style Tray Insert is a specialized entomology tray to provide maximum airflow and ventilation. The California Style Tray Insert features an open-grid design that allows for excellent drainage. At the same time, the raised sides help to prevent insects from escaping. The California Style Tray Insert is ideal for use with live insects, as it helps to keep them healthy and active. 

Standard Entomology Cabinet Features

Counter-height entomology cabinets provide a convenient work or display surface or can be stacked to maximize floor space. Full-height cabinets feature maximum capacity and convenient pull-out shelves.

• Solid, heavy-gauge welded steel framework
• Lift-off reinforced doors
• WaterShield cap
• Convenient pull-out shelves
• Elastomeric Seal for tight, dust-proof protection