Abstract: An open-topped container (10) is sealed by a cap (12) to the underside of which is fixed a sealed enclosure (13) containing a fixative solution. At the end of the enclosure remote from the cap is a receptacle (14) for a fecal specimen and this is surrounded by protrusions (15) of the enclosure which are ruptured by teeth (22) surrounding an uppermost filter (19) as the cap is screwed on. The fixative solution escapes from the enclosure, mixes with the fecal matter and passes through filters so that parasitic eggs are collected in the conical false bottom (23) of the container. During the final travel of the cap skirts engage the non-perforated periphery (21) of the upper filter to prevent the fixative solution flowing back into the enclosure when the container is inverted. The filtrate can be poured or pippetted out of the container through its spout (24).