Aphanizomenon

Aphanizomenon is a genus of cyanobacteria that inhabits freshwater lakes and can cause dense blooms. These cyanobacteria are unicellular organisms that form linear (non-branching) chains known as trichomes. Parallel trichomes can further unite into aggregates called rafts. Cyanobacteria such as Aphanizomenon are known for using photosynthesis to create energy and thus rely on sunlight as their energy source. Aphanizomenon bacteria also play a significant role in the Nitrogen cycle due to their ability to perform nitrogen fixation. Studies on the species Aphanizomenon flos-aquae have shown that it can regulate buoyancy through light-induced changes in turgor pressure. The genus is also capable of gliding motility, although the specific mechanism responsible for this ability remains unknown.