1. Select a container appropriate for the material to be preserved.
Plastic screw-capped vials with internal tube threads (1.0 to
2.0 mL) are appropriate for most fungi. They are sterilized by
the manufacturer and, when properly handled, remain sterile
throughout labeling and dispensing.
2. Label each vial clearly and accurately. Whatever labeling method
is chosen, labels must be able to withstand subsequent freezing
and thawing procedures.
3. Prepare the cultures for freezing as described above. Seal the
plastic vials as tightly as possible with the screw cap.
4. Load the vials onto aluminum canes and record the location of
each culture.
5. Cool the chamber of a controlled-rate cooling apparatus to 4°C
and place the canes into the unit. Insert the thermocouple probe