Cyanobacteria, also called blue-green algae, are microscopic organisms found naturally in all types of water. These single-celled organisms live in fresh, brackish (combined salt and fresh water), and marine water. These organisms use sunlight to make their own food.

Where are cyanobacteria found?

Cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, are bacteria which have some of the characteristics of plants. Cyanobacteria are found throughout the world on land and in lakes, rivers, and ponds, and in estuaries and seawater (oceans). Cyanobacteria often form blooms when the conditions are favorable.

Can cyanobacteria live outside water?

They grow in any type of water (fresh, brackish, or marine) and are photosynthetic: They use sunlight to create food and survive. Normally microscopic, cyanobacteria can become clearly visible in warm, nutrient-rich environments, which allow them to grow quickly and "bloom" in lakes and other bodies of water.