Q.58 What will be the order in which the following steps would be performed
in the technique of herbarium making?
- Mounting
- Filing
- Pressing
- Collection
- Labeling
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:
(A) D, B, C, A, E
(B) B, D, A, C, E
(C) C, A, D, E, B
(D) D, C, A, E, B
Herbarium making follows a logical sequence starting with plant collection and ending with organized storage. The correct order ensures proper preservation for botanical research and taxonomic study.
Introduction
Herbarium making steps order is crucial for preserving plant specimens as vouchers for scientific study. The standard sequence—Collection (D), Pressing (C), Mounting (A), Labeling (E), Filing (B)—transforms fresh plants into durable records used in taxonomy, ecology, and education.
Correct Sequence
The proper order is D → C → A → E → B.
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Collection (D) first: Select healthy, representative plants from field; note habitat, date, collector details temporarily.
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Pressing (C) next: Arrange specimens between absorbent papers (newspaper/blotting) in a press with weights; dry for 2-4 weeks to flatten and prevent decay.
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Mounting (A) follows: Glue or tape dried specimens onto standard herbarium sheets (acid-free paper) using strips or hinges, maintaining natural position.
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Labeling (E) then: Attach durable label (bottom right) with scientific name, collection data, locality, collector, date—essential for specimen identity.
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Filing (B) last: Store mounted, labeled sheets in genus folders within family cabinets alphabetically for easy retrieval.
This workflow prevents mold, color loss, and structural damage while enabling long-term archival.
Option Analysis
| Option | Sequence | Why Incorrect/Correct |
|---|---|---|
| (A) D, B, C, A, E | Collection → Filing → Pressing → Mounting → Labeling | Wrong: Filing (B) can’t precede pressing/mounting; specimens aren’t ready. |
| (B) B, D, A, C, E | Filing → Collection → Mounting → Pressing → Labeling | Wrong: Filing first is impossible; collection precedes all. |
| (C) C, A, D, E, B | Pressing → Mounting → Collection → Labeling → Filing | Wrong: Pressing/mounting before collection defies logic. |
| (D) D, C, A, E, B | Collection → Pressing → Mounting → Labeling → Filing | Correct: Matches universal herbarium technique protocol. |
Answer: (D) – Endorsed by standard botanical manuals and institutional guides.
Practical Tips
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Use newspaper for pressing (changes daily), then mount on 11.5×16.5″ sheets.
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Apply PVA glue sparingly at corners/stripes to avoid specimen damage.
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Label in permanent ink; include GPS coordinates for modern vouchers.
This sequence supports accurate plant identification and biodiversity documentation worldwide.
