Lyngbya majuscula

Lyngbya Majuscula

Species

Bacteria (Domain); Cyanobacteria (Phylum); Cyanophyceae (Class); Oscillatoriales (order); Oscillatoriaceae (family); Lyngbya (Genus). Lyngbya Majuscula

Description and Significance

Lyngbya majuscula, referred to as "mermaids hair" is an unbranched filamentous cyanobacterium that is often found in coastal tropical and subtropical marine and estuarine environments worldwide. Very important to the coral reef ecosystems, impacts the health of many other organisms. 35% of all cyanobacteria natural products derive from lyngbya majuscula.

Genome Structure

Lack of genomic information, and their close associations with heterotrophic bacteria and other cyanobacteria.

Cell Structure, Metabolism and Life Cycle

Reproduce asexually. Filaments break apart and each cell forms a new filament. The mat grow around atolls, salt marshes, or fresh water.

Ecology and Pathogenesis

Often found in coastal tropical and subtropical marine and estuarine enviornments worldwide. Found in many areas of Florida. Known to contain chemicals that have a range of biological effects, like the eye and skin irritation. Lyngbya induced dermatitis has occured. Also known as seaweed dermatitis.

References

Gomont, M. (1892 '1893'). Monographie des Oscillariées (Nostocacées Homocystées). Deuxième partie. - Lyngbyées. Annales des Sciences Naturelles, Botanique, Série 7 16: 91-264, pls 1-7.

Author

Page authored by Anna Smith, student of Prof. Bradley Tolar at UNC Wilmington.