cyanobacterium
Photosynthetic ancient prokaryote
Cyanobacteria are microscopic organisms that live in water and moist environments and are capable of photosynthesis, producing oxygen as a byproduct.
Despite often being called blue-green algae, they are bacteria rather than true algae.
They are among the oldest life forms on Earth, and their ancient ancestors are credited with oxygenating the planet's atmosphere billions of years ago.
Some species form harmful blooms in lakes and coastal waters that can produce toxins dangerous to humans and animals.
Cell without nuclear membrane
- filamentousComposed of thin strands
- unicellularOne cell only
- colonialOf occupied territories
Microscopic living entity
- cultureCollective social practices
- microscopyTechnique using powerful lenses
- colonyDependent territorial settlement
- biofilmAdhesive layer of microorganisms
genomics · plasmid · metabolism · cell-wall · trichome · sheath · mucilage
Interspecies biological interdependence
Excess nutrients depleting oxygen
- toxinBiological-origin harm agent
- hypoxiaInsufficient tissue oxygenation
- scumSurface residue or lowlifes
- phosphorusGlow-in-dark element
Light-harvesting plant pigment
- carotenoidPlant-derived color compound
- photolysisMolecular breakdown via light
- autotrophSelf-nourishing organism
- pigmentColor-imparting material
prokaryote
Cell without nuclear membrane
- filamentousComposed of thin strands
- unicellularOne cell only
- colonialOf occupied territories
microorganism
Microscopic living entity
- cultureCollective social practices
- microscopyTechnique using powerful lenses
- colonyDependent territorial settlement
biofilm · genomics · plasmid · metabolism · cell-wall · trichome · sheath · mucilage
symbiosis
Interspecies biological interdependence
mat · biofertilizer · cycad
eutrophication
Excess nutrients depleting oxygen
- toxinBiological-origin harm agent
- hypoxiaInsufficient tissue oxygenation
- scumSurface residue or lowlifes
phosphorus · nitrogen · runoff
chlorophyll
Light-harvesting plant pigment
- carotenoidPlant-derived color compound
- photolysisMolecular breakdown via light
- autotrophSelf-nourishing organism
pond
Small still body
- lakeEnclosed body of freshwater
- freshwaterNon-saline aquatic environment
- marineRelating to the sea
brackish · estuary · wetland · tidepool · reef · lagoon · benthic · pelagic · plankton · salinity
cyanobacteriumeukaryote
Organism with nucleated cells
diatom · green alga · dinoflagellate · protozoan · protist