Abstract: Polynucleate metal hydroxide anionic compounds and method for their production. The compounds have the formula: MaNb(OH)cXdYeZf.(H2O)g wherein M is a tri- or more valent metal ion; N is a divalent metal ion that forms a soluble salt with anions X, Y or Z; OH represents the level of basicity; X is a monovalent anion; Y is a divalent anion; Z is a trivalent anion; a is 1; b is from 0.15 to 2.0; c is from 0.3 to 5; d is from 0 to 3; e is from 0.1 to 2.25; f is from 0 to 1; and g is greater than 4 where the compound is in the form of an aqueous solution, or from 0 to 20 where the compound is not in the form of an aqueous solution. The compounds are useful for water treatment for removal of suspended solids and for various applications in the paper industry.