Malachite green is a triphenylmethane dye, which is used extensively in the aquaculture industry for the treatment of fungal and protozoal infections. The toxicity of the dye increases with exposure time, temperature and concentration and has been reported to cause carcinogenesis, mutagenesis, chromosomal fractures, teratogenicity and respiratory toxicity. Malachite green has a high level of abuse due to its efficacy and the lack of equally effective alternatives. It is easily absorbed during waterborne exposure and metabolised to the colourless compound, leucomalachite green, which can persist in fatty fish tissue for long periods of time.  It is the leuco-form which persists in the tissue for long periods of time.  eg. Half-life in trout muscle – 40 days for LMG and 67 hours for MG.

The Randox Food Diagnostics Leucomalachite Green ELISA test kit offers a reliable screening method for seafood analysis including detection of Leucocrystal Violet.