Aldehydes
Aldehydes act by denaturing protein. Two aldehyde compounds that may be used during decontamination of aquaculture establishments are formaldehyde and glutaraldehyde. They are highly effective against a wide range of organisms but require long exposure times. Aldehydes maintain their activity in the presence of organic matter and are only mildly corrosive. Glutaraldehyde is used in the liquid form as a cold sterilant, particularly for heat-sensitive equipment. Formaldehyde may be used as a mist or a gas for fumigation.