A blue pigment or coloring matter derived from or related to algae, particularly cyanobacteria or blue-green algae.
Combining 'algo-' (from alga/algae) with 'cyan' (from Greek 'kyanos' meaning blue). This term emerged in botanical and chemical contexts referring to the natural blue pigments produced by certain types of algae.
Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) produce amazing pigments called phycobilins that absorb light colors that other algae can't use—this is why some algae appear brilliant blue or turquoise in tide pools, and scientists are now using these pigments in medical imaging!
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.