Finfish Breeding and Hatchery Management

Unit 3 - Breeding of major carps

3.3.2. Preservation of pituitary gland

1. Preservation in absolute alcohol

• In this method, the gland, after collection, is immediately transferred to a vial/phial containing fresh absolute alcohol (ethanol).
• After 24 hours, the alcohol is removed and fresh alcohol is added and stored at room temperature or in a refrigerator.

2. Preservation in acetone

• Immediately after collection, the pituitary gland is kept in ice-chilled acetone and stored in a refrigerator for 2-3 days.
• After this period, the acetone is changed and the gland stored in a refrigerator.
• Both absolute alcohol and acetone have de-fattening and dehydrating effect.

3. Immediate freezing

• In this method, the collected glands are frozen immediately and stored in a freezer.