Category: Microalgae

Phycocyanin is a deep, vibrant blue pigment and antioxidant found primarily in certain types of photosynthetic organisms. While many people associate it with spirulina, this phycobiliprotein is also present in other fascinating microalgae and bacteria.

As one of the planet's oldest and most prolific organisms, having thrived for over 2 billion years, the tiny green microalgae known as chlorella can be naturally found in various aquatic and terrestrial environments worldwide. While commercially sourced chlorella is typically cultivated under controlled conditions to ensure purity and nutritional density, its wild counterparts thrive in freshwater lakes, rivers, and even soil.

Spirulina, a type of blue-green algae, has been consumed for centuries by civilizations like the Aztecs, who harvested it from Lake Texcoco and made it into dried cakes called "tecuitlatl". Its unique color is the result of a fascinating combination of specific photosynthetic pigments.

First discovered in the 19th century, chlorella is a microscopic green alga that has existed on Earth for over 2.5 billion years. This ancient organism thrives in a natural, nutrient-rich environment, relying on one of the planet's most fundamental processes for survival and reproduction.

Despite common misconceptions, a significant 2024 study clarified that the commercially sold spirulina belongs to the genus *Limnospira*, not the true *Spirulina* genus. This taxonomic detail is just one of many differences between spirulina and the broader category of phytoplankton. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for anyone looking to incorporate these nutrient-dense microorganisms into their diet, as they differ significantly in their biological classification, habitat, and nutritional makeup.

Haematococcus pluvialis is recognized as the richest natural source of the potent antioxidant astaxanthin, a carotenoid that has garnered significant attention for its health benefits. While the algae itself is not typically eaten as a whole food, its extracts are widely used in a variety of dietary supplements and food products.

According to a 2020 study in *Microbial Cell Factories*, microalgae can provide more vitamins to humans than many terrestrial plants. When considering which algae is high in vitamin A, key contenders include Chlorella and Dunaliella salina, both of which are packed with provitamin A carotenoids.

Over 30 species of chlorella have been identified, creating confusion for consumers exploring this popular health supplement. It is important to know that while all *Chlorella vulgaris* is a type of chlorella, not all chlorella is the species *Chlorella vulgaris*, highlighting a crucial distinction for informed supplement decisions.

Chlorella sorokiniana, a single-celled freshwater green microalga, is rich in bioactive compounds like carotenoids and chlorophyll, which give it potent antioxidant properties. It is utilized across multiple sectors, including as a dietary supplement for human health, a component in aquaculture feed, and for environmental applications like wastewater treatment.

According to scientific research, chlorella can contain a substantial amount of the essential amino acid lysine, with some analyses showing more than 4,600 mg per 100 grams of dry weight. This variability is common, and understanding how much lysine is in chlorella requires looking at several factors, including the species and growing conditions.