FOSSIL INVERTEBRATES AND PLANTS 111 



position of the fossils in the geological section if possible, the 

 geographical location, the collector's name, and the date. The 

 last two items should not be overlooked because this information 

 may be of considerable help in relocating a collection in case 

 part of the label is damaged or not clear. 



Another method is to number each specimen, entering localities 

 and other details under the same number in a notebook. The 

 locality number is then attached to each specimen by means of 

 a small piece (-$■ to £ inch) of adhesive tape. Mark the tape in 

 pencil or waterproof ink, preferably the former. 



Large collections are desirable if the fossils are gathered for 

 scientific purposes. Animals of the same species vary considerably; 

 consequently, many specimens are needed to define a species 

 properly. Besides the biological value of large collections, the 

 additional material is available for exchange after study. 



Packing requires, most of all, the exercise of common sense. 

 Wrap all specimens so they will not rub together. Bundle to- 

 gether all specimens from the same zone or layer. See that all 

 bundles and packages have adequate labels. If delicate material 

 has to be packed with heavy specimens, pack the former in a 

 stout box by themselves; then add to the main lot. Pack all 

 bundles in stout wooden boxes, the stoutness of the box to 

 depend on the weight of material to be shipped. Nail kegs are 

 ideal because they are sturdy and not too heavy to handle even 

 if full of rock. Do not use pasteboard boxes unless they are the 

 only containers available, in which case tie them securely in 

 three directions. Address boxes clearly and put on sender's name. 

 Also number all boxes and keep a list of the contents. 



Loose fossils can be packed in small sacks or kegs, using 



