Biological Archive

At the Institute of Freshwater Research in Drottningholm, we maintain a biological archive that is continually updated. Each year, we collect new tissue samples from fish to analyse age and growth. Our archive holds over one million samples, with the oldest dating back to the early 1900s. Every individual sample is registered in our database and processed in accordance with our quality assurance procedures. Once registered, the samples are placed in a fireproof archive. We also carry out genetic and chemical analyses. These tissue samples help us understand how fish populations in lakes and rivers change over time.

Otoliths, scales, and more

The archive contains otoliths, gill covers, and scales collected to determine the age and growth of fish. While the material can be reused for age verification and comparisons, it may also be used for genetic, chemical, or isotope analyses—or for future applications where historical biological material proves valuable.

Genetic material

Tissue samples have also been collected for genetic analysis, primarily fin clips preserved in test tubes with 70–95% ethanol. This genetic material is currently being reviewed, and a corresponding database is under development. However, it is already possible to borrow material from this collection.

Access and use of the biological archive

Samples from the biological archive are available for use in various research and environmental projects—both internally at SLU and by external organisations.

Please contact us if you have any enquiries about the archive.

Fees

We charge an hourly rate for the archive manager’s time.

Conditions for borrowing samples

• All loans must be formalised through a loan agreement.
• The borrower is responsible for storing and handling material carefully to prevent damage (where return in original condition is possible).  
• The archive manager provides guidance on proper handling and retrieves the samples.
• Samples may only be used for purposes outlined in the loan agreement.
• Borrowed material may not be used for profit-making or commercial activities.
• Time spent by the archive manager in handling samples is charged to the requesting party.
• Borrowed material may not be passed on to third parties without the explicit approval of the archive manager and the management team (or its designated representative).
• Collaborative projects are prioritised. In publications, the Institute of Freshwater Research at the Department of Aquatic Resources must be acknowledged. Where appropriate, SLU staff should be included as co-authors. SLU must also be granted access to the draft manuscript prior to publication or public dissemination.
• Ownership of the material is governed by specific agreements with the borrower.
• If DNA is extracted from destructively sampled material, the DNA should, where possible, be returned to the archive for potential future use. 
• All borrowed samples must be returned to the archive manager promptly after use and no later than the agreed return date.