The malachite kingfisher was described by the German naturalist Peter Simon Pallas in 1764 and given the binomial name Alcedo cristata.

[7] A molecular phylogenetic study published in 2007 confirmed that the most closely related species is the Malagasy kingfisher, (Corythornis vintsioides).

[8] The Malagasy kingfisher has a black bill and greenish crest, and is not quite as dependent on water as the African species.

The face, cheeks, and underparts are rufous and there are white patches on the throat and rear neck sides.

The flight of the malachite kingfisher is rapid, with the short, rounded wings whirring until they appear a mere blur.

Large food items are beaten on a bough or rail; small fish and insects are promptly swallowed.