isinglass ( ichthyocoll )
A semi-transparent whitish substance consisting of
a very pure form of gelatin, produced from the
sounds (swimming bladders) of the sturgeon
(Acipenser huso, and other species of Acipenser),
found in the Caspian and Black Seas. After
removal, the bladders are cut open, soaked in
water, spread out and the outer silvery membrane
removed by rubbing. The isinglass contains about
80o collagen. It is used as a clarifying agent, in
the manufacture of fish glue, and as a size for
handmade paper. Its use in recent years has
greatly diminished, due to the rise in use of
synthetic materials and gelatin. (102 , 195 , 335 )
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