Containers for collecting live hosts may include any type of cage that prevents escape, including plastic vials with pinholes in the lids or with cotton plugs for air circulation and prevention of condensation. The addition of a drying agent, such as silica gel, to the container used for temporary storage will slow or prevent germination of entomopathogenic fungi and bacteria, and help eliminate the growth of saprobic fungi on specimens (Figure ). Aquatic invertebrates and specimens containing nematodes and certain protistan parasites should not be allowed to dry. Fragile insect bodies, especially those from aquatic habitats that can be dried, should be placed on filter paper or a microscope slide and allowed.
