Gloeocapsa

/ˌɡloʊiəʊˈkæpsə/ noun

Definition

A genus of cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) that forms gelatinous colonies, found in freshwater and terrestrial environments.

Etymology

From Greek 'gloia' (glue) and 'kapsa' (capsule), literally meaning 'slimy capsule,' named for the gelatinous sheaths surrounding the bacteria.

Kelly Says

Gloeocapsa bacteria form colorful, gelatinous mats on wet rocks and can survive extreme conditions like hot springs and frozen Antarctic peaks—they're some of Earth's toughest microorganisms!

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