Definition

1. Noun:
   • A taxonomic class of photosynthetic bacteria that inhabit both freshwater and marine environments. These organisms possess chlorophyll a and phycobilin pigments, giving them a blue-green color. They were historically classified as algae but are now recognized as bacteria.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The pond's green scum was caused by a bloom of class Cyanobacteria.
  • Scientists study class Cyanobacteria to understand early photosynthetic life on Earth.

Advanced Usage

• In scientific taxonomy, "class Cyanobacteria" refers to the specific rank within the biological classification system.
  • The organism was definitively placed within the class Cyanobacteria based on its genetic sequencing.

Variants and Related Words

• Cyanobacterium (n): The singular form referring to an individual organism belonging to this class.
  • A single cyanobacterium is visible under the microscope.
• Cyanobacterial (adj): The adjective form.
  • The cyanobacterial mat covered the shoreline.

Synonyms

• Blue-green algae (n): The former common name for these organisms, still widely used in non-scientific contexts.

Related Phrases

• Cyanobacterial bloom (n): A rapid increase in the population of cyanobacteria in a water body, often causing ecological issues.
  • Authorities issued a warning due to a toxic cyanobacterial bloom in the lake.

Noun

1. photosynthetic bacteria found in fresh and salt water, having chlorophyll a and phycobilins; once thought to be algae: blue-green algae