temporary stain

A type of stain used for immediate observation through the light microscope. Such stains often damage the section, or the colour of the stain fades after a short time. For example, when plant sections are stained with Schultze's solution and mounted in 50% glycerol, the stain eventually causes swelling and dissolves the walls. Some specimens can be mounted directly in the stain, for example, when using ruthenium red. Compare permanent stain . See also staining.