Microbiology Procedure
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Index >> Staining Methods in Microbiology >> Alcian Blue Stain

Alcian Blue Stain

Alcian Blue Stain
This is a simple stain for polysaccharides and gives satisfactory results. The critical step in this procedure is the counter staining. Excess exposure will overstain the preparation. Following schedule for staining is recommended (12). Prepare the smear and heat fix in the usual way.

Stain the smear by allowing it to react with alcian blue (S51) for 1 minute. Wash with water and air dry the smear. Counter stain the preparation with 1:9 diluted carbo1 fuchsin (S19) and wash off immediately with water. Air dry and examine under oil-immersion objective. Capsules and other bacterial polysaccharides will appear blue, while cellular material will appear red in colour.

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