Detection and inhibition of fungi from the excised trunk of an asian elephant

A unique opportunity became available to investigate the mold species isolated from a formaldehyde embalmed and subsequently tanned excised elephant trunk. The long-term preservation with glutaraldehyde was also investigated. The isolated mold species were identified as Penicillium notatum, P. variabilis, P. purpurogenum, and Aspergillus niger. Minimal inhibitory concentrations were determined for all species using formaldehyde as well as glutaraldehyde. The latter was selected due to its widespread and legally acceptable use as a preservative, fixative, and sterilant. Trivial differences between glutaraldehyde and formaldehyde, based on molar levels, were noted. The trunk was preserved for approximately 1 year in a 50% ethylene glycol solution with 0.9% glutaraldehyde, after which no viable organisms were found. Subsequently, the fluid was removed and thymol and a dessicant were placed in the sealed display case. One year later, the trunk was examined for fungi, with no growth detected. These findings may be useful for future museum staff investigators who encounter similar infection in other preserved specimens of various sizes.