Levamisole hydrochloride is a crystalline reagent used in water-quality and aquatic research. Moreover, it supports analytical work in the aquarium and aquaculture industries under strict laboratory conditions. This article explains its role, limitations, and safety requirements for industrial applications.
Levamisole HCl is the hydrochloride salt of an imidazothiazole derivative. It dissolves quickly in water and remains stable in controlled conditions. Because of this, it is ideal for use as a reference compound in aquatic research.
Scientists test how levamisole behaves in aquatic systems to study enzyme activity and chemical traceability. For example, controlled experiments measure how filters and bio-media remove trace compounds from test water. As a result, researchers develop better monitoring and purification solutions for aquaculture facilities.
The following data describe the physical and chemical parameters of Levamisole HCl relevant for aquatic research and industrial water testing.
| Property | Specification / Note |
|---|---|
| Substance name | Levamisole hydrochloride |
| CAS number | 16595-80-5 |
| Synonyms | (-)-Tetramisole hydrochloride, Levamisole HCl crystalline reagent |
| Chemical formula | C11H12N2S · HCl |
| Molar mass | 240.8 g·mol−1 |
| Appearance | White crystalline powder |
| Melting point | 266–267 °C (decomposition) |
| Solubility in water | Freely soluble; ideal for aqueous calibration and adsorption testing |
| pH (1% solution) | ≈ 5.8–6.2 at 25 °C |
| Stability | Stable when stored dry and cool (2–8 °C). Sensitive to humidity. |
| Primary laboratory use | Marker compound for filter efficiency, reference for aquatic enzyme studies |
| Safety classification (ECHA) | Toxic if swallowed; causes eye and skin irritation; environmental hazard to aquatic life. |
| Recommended PPE | Gloves, goggles, lab coat, fume hood use required |
| Regulatory note | For R&D and industrial testing only — not for hobby or direct aquarium use |
| Data references | PubChem, ECHA, ChemSpider |
Levamisole HCl works as a marker compound in industrial filtration and adsorption tests. Technicians track its removal from water to evaluate filter performance. Therefore, the compound helps optimize purification systems in commercial hatcheries and public aquariums.
In R&D environments, levamisole functions as a reference substance to examine parasite resistance in fish populations. Studies compare how different species react to trace exposure under laboratory control. Furthermore, the findings support the design of safe, non-medicated solutions for large aquaculture operations.
Laboratories use Levamisole HCl to calibrate analytical instruments such as HPLC and spectrophotometers. In addition, it verifies detection limits in tests that measure contaminants in water. Consequently, the compound ensures accuracy and reproducibility across analytical systems.
Levamisole HCl is not approved for direct use in aquariums or with ornamental fish. It is classified as a laboratory reagent and may be toxic if misused. Therefore, only trained professionals should handle it, using proper protective gear and ventilation.
According to PubChem and ECHA, the compound is toxic if swallowed and can irritate eyes or skin. Always collect waste as hazardous material and never release it into aquatic systems.
Some older publications from the 1980s mention Levamisole as a potential anesthetic for fish during transport. 🐟 However, this practice was experimental and is no longer permitted under current safety regulations.
Research showed that levamisole affects nerve and muscle function, which could immobilize fish temporarily — but also causes stress, gill damage, and high mortality. Modern studies have fully replaced it with safe anesthetics such as MS-222 (tricaine), benzocaine, or eugenol (clove oil).
According to PubChem and ECHA, Levamisole HCl is classified as toxic and harmful to aquatic organisms. Therefore, it must never be used directly in aquariums or with live animals. 🚫
The aquarium industry is moving toward sustainable water management. Levamisole HCl contributes to this shift by serving as a reference analyte in traceability tests. Moreover, it supports development of monitoring sensors and data-driven systems that reduce chemical waste. As a result, industrial aquariums achieve higher safety standards and lower environmental impact.
Levamisole HCl (CAS 16595-80-5) is an essential research reagent for the aquarium and aquaculture sectors. It supports water purification research, parasitic resistance studies, and analytical calibration. Nevertheless, it must be used only in professional R&D settings under controlled, safe conditions.
Explore certified crystalline reagents, including Levamisole HCl, at CristalChem.com — trusted supplier for R&D and analytical laboratories.
For laboratory and R&D use only. Not for human, animal, or aquarium hobby applications.
Last updated: October 2025 — CristalChem R&D Editorial Team.
Chemical Research Writer at CristalChem Academy. Passionate about chemistry, R&D, and turning laboratory insights into global wellness and industrial innovations.
