Question

Difference between blue green algae and cyanobacteria

Answer 1

Green algae and cyanobacteria are two types of photosynthetic organisms that are evolved from algae. Both green algae and cyanobacteria are very diverse organisms that are mainly found in aquatic habitats. Green algae are eukaryotes but, cyanobacteria are prokaryotes. Therefore, the green algae contain membrane-bound organelles along with a nucleus. In contrast, cyanobacteria do not have membrane-bound organelles. The cyanobacteria are also called the blue-green algae. Both green algae and cyanobacteria are photosynthetic organisms that produce their own food by photosynthesis. Some of the cyanobacteria can be heterotrophs as well. The main difference between green algae and cyanobacteria is that green algae contain chloroplasts whereas cyanobacteria do not contain chloroplasts in their cells.   

Answer 2

Both green algae and cyanobacteria have evolved from algae. Based on their structure, they are differentiated into prokaryocyte (cyanobacteria) and eukaryocyte (green algae). Green algae are symbiotic which means they can produce lichen symbiotically (living in harmony) with fungi. They are a source of food for the aquatic microorganisms whereas the cyanobacteria prove can be helpful or harmful based on the sub-species. Cyanobacteria are blue green bacteria and cannot perform photosynthesis the way green algae can.