Cyanobacteria are a group photosynthetic bacteria that have played a crucial role in the evolution of the Earth as we know it. Cyanobacteria were the first organisms on earth to develop the capability to photosynthesize.
Microorganisms living in shallow water habitats tend to trap sediments leading to their solidification. These fossil formations called stromatolites are some of the oldest records of ancient life on earth.
Evolution of Cyanobacteria
Until the end of the 20th century, cyanobacteria were recognized as algae and thus followed the International Code of Botanical Nomenclature.
Classification of Cyanobacteria
Cyanobacteria Structure
Cyanobacteria are morphologically diverse, ranging between spheroidal, rod-shaped, filamentous or tubular. Cyanobacteria vary in size between 0.5 to 100 mm.
Cyanobacteria Reproduction
Motility of Cyanobacteria
Cyanobacteria lack specialized structures for transport such as flagella. Most species of cyanobacteria move by gliding using propulsion mechanisms.
Cyanobacteria Metabolism
Cyanobacteria sequester carbon-dioxide, perform fixing nitrogen and release oxygen. They perform these function through two important metabolic pathways:1. Photosynthesis2. Nitrogen Fixation
Commercial Uses of Cyanobacteria
1. Industrial production of amino acids.2. Spirulina.3. Used in agriculture as fertilizers. 4. Renewable energy source.