Lyngbya

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Lyngbya A genus of filamentous cyanobacteria in which each filament is surrounded by a sheath. The filaments are capable of gliding motility. They may be free-floating or mat-forming. They are found in all types of aquatic environment and on wet rocks, damp soil, etc. Heterocysts and akinetes are not formed, and the organisms are difficult to distinguish from Phormidium or Plectonema (the LPP group). Lyngbya majuscula produces several toxins, and blooms of this species can cause dermatitis in swimmers, a condition known as ‘swimmers' itch’.

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