Softening of dried Ostracoda (Crustacea) with freshly sliced cherry laurel leaves and cleaning of ostracod valves

A new method for softening dried ostracods and an additional technique for cleaning the internal surfaces of ostracod valves are described and compared with previously published approaches. The advantages and disadvantages of the known and new methods are discussed. We recommend exposing dried ostracods to the fumes of freshly sliced cherry laurel leaves to soften the animals' soft parts. Remnants of the dry tissues adhering to the inner surfaces of the valves should be removed with 7% KOH.