What is the common name for cyanobacteria, which are known for their ability to perform photosynthesis?

Cyanobacteria are commonly referred to as "blue-green algae" due to their characteristic coloration, which arises from the presence of the blue pigment phycocyanin and the green pigment chlorophyll. Despite being classified as bacteria, cyanobacteria possess the ability to perform photosynthesis, similar to plants and algae. This group of photosynthetic microorganisms plays a significant role in producing oxygen and fixing nitrogen in various ecosystems, particularly aquatic environments. Their ability to thrive in a range of habitats, from freshwater to marine environments, further emphasizes their importance to ecological dynamics.

Green algae, red algae, and brown algae are all distinct groups of eukaryotic organisms, which are separate from the prokaryotic cyanobacteria. Each of these groups has unique characteristics and ecological roles, but they do not represent the same group as cyanobacteria, hence the naming distinction.