Microcystis
| Microcystis | |
|---|---|
| Microcystis aeruginosa | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Domain: | Bacteria |
| Kingdom: | Bacillati |
| Phylum: | Cyanobacteriota |
| Class: | Cyanophyceae |
| Order: | Chroococcales |
| Family: | Microcystaceae |
| Genus: | Microcystis Kützing, 1833 |
| Species | |
|
Many (see below) | |
Microcystis is a genus of freshwater cyanobacteria that includes the harmful algal bloom-forming Microcystis aeruginosa.
Over the last few decades, cyanobacterial blooms caused by eutrophication have become a major environmental problem in aquatic ecosystems worldwide, and the most representative and harmful cyanobacteria is Microcystis. Microcystis blooms have increased due to global climate change, spanning six continents and causing increased health risks to wildlife and humans.
This article will address the conditions for the growth of Microcystis, physical characteristics, ecology, geographic distribution, and health risks of Microcystis.