This wooden entomological spreader is a professional and versatile tool designed for preparing, spreading, and drying insects, especially orthopterans (e.g., crickets, grasshoppers) and other winged insects. The spreader is made from high-quality limewood, known for its lightness, durability, and natural moisture resistance.
Key Features:
Adjustable dimensions: The spreader is 40 cm long, with an adjustable groove width from 0 to 15 mm, and an overall width ranging from 6 to 14 mm. This allows precise adjustment to different insect sizes and shapes, ensuring optimal wing spreading and stable fixation.
Material: Made from high-quality limewood, which is lightweight, strong, and long-lasting. Limewood naturally resists deformation and moisture, making it suitable for both laboratory and field use.
Functionality: The adjustable groove allows the spreader to be tailored to various insect species and sizes, ensuring comfortable and safe wing spreading while preserving the insect’s structural integrity during drying.
Ease of use: The natural wood provides a pleasant grip and reliable handling, facilitating work with delicate insects. The spreader is easy to clean and maintain.
Advantages compared to other materials:
Eco-friendliness: Limewood is a natural, environmentally friendly material appreciated by users who value sustainability.
Aesthetics: The natural wood grain gives the tool an elegant and professional look.
Durability: With proper care, a limewood spreader can last for many years without losing functionality.
Instructions for use:
Select the appropriate spreader width and length according to the insect species and size.
Adjust the groove width from 0 to 15 mm to match the insect’s body width and wing spread.
Carefully place the insect, ensuring wings are fully spread and securely fixed.
Use pins and/or special strips to hold the wings in the desired position.
Leave the insect to dry in a well-ventilated, dry place for about 2 weeks.
After drying, gently remove the fixation materials and transfer the insect to a display case or collection.
This adjustable wooden spreader is ideal for both beginners and experienced entomologists aiming to prepare insect specimens professionally and reliably for scientific research, education, or collecting.