Glue-on shellfish tags (type FPN)

Hallprint's type FPN glue-on shellfish tags are rapidly becoming the “standard” method of tagging shelled molluscs such as abalone, goeduck, scallops and mussels. The thin (150 um), flexible polyethylene conforms to the shell surface and attaches firmly with cyanoacrylate “instant” glue to shell surfaces. Three major sizes are available viz.-

1. 4 mm circle (type FPN4C)
2. 8 x 4 mm oval (type FPN8O)
3. 8 mm circle (type FPN8C)
4. 16 x 8 mm oval (type FPN16O)

The 8 x 4 mm oval tag is by far the most popular as it generally conforms well with the grooves on the shell surface. The 8 x 4 mm and 8 mm diameter tags can be produced with up to four alpha-numeric characters (eg A001- A999) whereas the 16 x 8 mm tags can utilise up to seven characters per tag. The 4 mm circle shellfish tags only allow 2 numerical numbers in each colour combination i.e. 00-99. Tags are presented on strip rolls for easy detachment in sequential number order. As with most of our tags the full colour range is available.

Application instructions for glue-on shellfish tags

Check the adhesion of these tags to the particular shell involved before tagging. Free samples are readily available.

No problems have been experienced to date with the relatively hard shelled molluscs such as abalone, trochus, goeduck, scallops, mussels and clams. Some have experienced less success in terms of tag retention with softer shelled oysters.

A. Care and storage of tags
Do not expose the tags to above ambient temperatures or expose to strong sunlight for any length of time. If you contaminate the tags with oil, grease or dust they will not bond. Do not use cosmetic or barrier creams when handling the tags.

B. Adhesive
Cyanoacrylate (super or crazy glue) adhesives are widely available from hardware stores. Bulk supplies can be obtained from the manufacturers. Those made for household purposes have often been found to be superior to special purpose grades. Please ensure that you read the safety instructions on the package. If the unused adhesive is stored in the coolest part of a refrigerator it will considerably extend its useable life.

C. Applicators
The most effective applicator is a pair of finely pointed stainless steel tweezers with ends bent inwards.

D. Preparation of shell
Shells need only be dried superficially. Effective bonds will be formed if the shell is just damp but nor saturated. Remove any loose material or outer “skin” from the tagging site.

E. Method of attachment
Pick up a tag from the roll by grasping on the edge with the tweezers, smear a little adhesive on the unprinted surface, place on shell and press down firmly, particularly around the edges. The setting mechanism of the adhesive relies on the presence of moisture to neutralise the chemical providing a buffer between the acrylic molecules. Therefore, applying the adhesive to the shell first will see the action almost over before the tag is placed. Use only the minimum amount of adhesive necessary to coat the tag and penetrate the shell. If testing adhesion, leave for a while to ensure that the chemical adhesion activity is complete.