MicrobeHunter.com Microscopy Forum

Hi! I work at an animal shelter so I occasionally get to use the vet clinic’s microscope and I LOVE IT. I finally bought my own microscope so I can indulge myself and get to look at something besides tapeworm eggs. I also bought a basic stain kit. I’ve been able to find information on methylene blue but that’s about it, as far as plain-language stuff I can understand. I was wondering what these stains do and what I can use them for? As well as some things to practice staining and slide preparation. I’m particularly interested at looking at bacteria and other microscopic organisms, as well as any samples I can get from my own body, or from my pets without hurting them like dander, ear swabs, etc. Any information, tips, or ideas you have for a newbie is much appreciated! Thank you!

My stain kit includes:
Methylene Blue Loefflers Solution
Methylene Blue Saturated, 1% in IPA/Water
Carbol Fuchsin Solution
Carbol Rose Bengal Solution
Crystal Violet, 1% Alcohol

Hi,
nice to hear that you found an interest in the microscopic world!
Here is a database where you will find a possible applications and a lot of information on your stains: http://aeisner.de/
You might have to stress Google translator or DeepL a bit.
Generally it is a good idea to keep in mind that many stains are not especially healthy as they attatch to you by the same methods as they attatch to your specimens, so don't mess around with them. You crystal violet is one of the more critical substances. In my eyes this this solution can be used in the home lab, but with thought towards safety and disposal. Micro recipes always should be checked carefully for the potential dangers of the used substances. You regularily find harmless substances next to dangerous ones without a warning comment.

With which name can we adress you, Kitten?

Bob

I was reading up on it just yesterday too on wikipedia.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Staining

Since you work at a shelter with a scope, they probably have a Diff-Quick kit or similar 3-bottle stain kit. It's what is used for ear cytology, a common vet tech chore. Looks like it is also good for blood and other kinds of cells too, but I am just learning about it so I don't know all the applications.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diff-Quik

Maybe you can prep some of your slides with their stain. You can also buy your own kit... I just got one on eBay for less than $25 shipped.

Of the stains you listed, AFAIK the Loeffler's is a good general-purpose stain. The saturated methylene blue needs to be diluted before use, Loeffler's is ready to go... according to the video I happened to watch yesterday! There's a difference in pH between them too but I can't remember the details.