Definition

A type of blue pigment found in certain bacteria, especially cyanobacteria, that helps in photosynthesis.

Example

Phycocyanin is responsible for the blue color in many species of cyanobacteria.

Conversation

Have you heard about the benefits of phycocyanin?

Yeah, I read it’s a great antioxidant found in blue-green algae.

Exactly! It’s fascinating how it helps with inflammation too.

I should try some supplements; it sounds really healthy.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Phycocyanin is formed from "phyco-" (from Greek "phykon", meaning seaweed) and "cyanin" (from Greek "kyanos", meaning dark blue). The word refers to a blue pigment derived from certain types of algae, specifically seaweed.

Memory Tip

Think of 'seaweed' ('phyco-') and its 'dark blue' color ('cyanin') to remember that phycocyanin is a blue pigment found in algae.

Visually Confused Words