The counterstain used in the Gram stain is a basic dye.

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The counterstain used in the Gram stain is typically a basic dye, such as safranin or fuchsine. These dyes have a positive charge, which allows them to bind to the negatively charged cells that were not retained by the crystal violet stain in the first step of the Gram stain. As a result, they highlight these cells and give them a contrasting color, allowing for easier differentiation between Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.

The Counterstain Used in the Gram Stain Is a Basic