Malachite Green F

Malachite Green is a synthetic dye belonging to the triarylmethane class. Here’s a detailed description:

Chemical Properties:

• IUPAC Name: [4-[(4-dimethylaminophenyl)-phenyl-methyl]-N,N-dimethylaniline]
• Chemical Formula: C₂₃H₂₅ClN₂ (as chloride salt) or C₂₃H₂₅N₂ (free base)
• Appearance: Dark green crystalline powder or greenish-blue solution.
• Solubility: Soluble in water, ethanol, and organic solvents.
• pH Sensitivity: Changes color with pH (green in neutral/acidic, colorless in basic conditions).

Uses:

1. Aquaculture & Fisheries: Historically used as an antifungal/antiparasitic agent (now banned in many countries due to toxicity).
2. Textile Dye: For silk, wool, and leather.
3. Biological Stain: In microscopy for staining bacteria and tissues.
4. Disinfectant: Limited use due to safety concerns.

Toxicity & Safety:

• Carcinogenic: Potential to cause liver tumors (classified as hazardous).
• Environmental Harm: Toxic to aquatic life; persistent in water.
• Regulations: Banned in food-producing animals in the EU, USA, and other regions.

Alternatives:

Safer substitutes like methylene blue or acriflavine are often recommended in aquaculture.