FORM AND FUNCTION 



253 



upon the same page, the possibility for confused im- 

 pressions arises. 



Preparation of Specimen. The most humane and at 

 the same time the most convenient way to prepare the 

 live specimens for anatomical study is to place them for 

 from one-half to three-quarters of an hour in a cyanide 

 bottle. Any wide-mouthed bottle will do. Cnt a piece 

 of cyanide of potassium, 1 the size of a walnut, into small 

 pieces, place in the bottle and cover with plaster of 



- 



FIG. 192. Cyanide bottle. 



paris, add enough water to moisten the plaster of paris, 

 allow to stand uncovered until dry ; then put a circular 

 piece of blotting-paper which will cover this plaster 

 formation in the bottom of the bottle. This paper will 

 keep the insect dry, and when the blotter becomes very 

 moist it should be replaced by another. A roll of 

 blotting-paper is frequently placed around the inside of 



1 Cyanide of potassium is a deadly poison. Great care should be exercised 

 while handling it, to avoid inhaling the fumes or bringing the substance in contact 

 with the mouth. 



