The Invisible ABCs

Exploring the World of Microbes...

Letter w

Spirulina

Habitat:

 

Spirulina is a bacterium that lives in freshwater.

 

Importance:

 

Spirulina is a microorganism that harvests its energy from sunlight using a process known as photosynthesis.  During photosynthesis, oxygen is released.  In addition, Spirulina and other photosynthetic microbes are the basis for the food chain in aquatic environments.

During the 15th and 16th centuries, the Aztec Indians of Mexico regularly harvested Spirulina for food from natural green lakes and ponds. The bacteria were mixed with cornmeal to make green pancakes.  Today, Spirulina is sold as a health food supplement. 

 

Classification:

 

Spirulina is a thin-walled, photosynthetic bacterium.  It has a helical shape.