Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

I have to collect, identify and display 30 kinds of seaweed, algae and organisms in a "creative" way... I have begun to collect samples and dry it out but it is dry and keeps breaking apart... any ideas?

Hi,

In addition to displaying the specimen in a creative way, I would suggest doing it in a manner that would preserve and protect it.

Perhaps you can use a framed display or some kind of plexiglass/acrylic case? You can certainly be very creative in this approach too by designing it a certain way. Or perhaps a jar or something that is would allow your organisms to be fully visible.

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Hi,

Phonghuynh had given you excellent advice for preserving dried algae samples. With fragile samples, it's best to transfer them to an environment where they won't be disturbed as quickly as possible.

Since this is a science project, you should consider the purpose of the collection. Will you need to identify the algae after your collect them? Here are a couple of websites from college botany classes that includes options for preserving algae. The University of Hawaii website includes a precaution about following laws and getting permits when collecting algae.

http://www.botany.wisc.edu/courses/bota ... ation.html

http://www.hawaii.edu/reefalgae/publica ... ection.htm

Donna Hardy