Many small spherical to ovoid cells packed in mucilage (usually densely), forming randomly shaped colonies. Cells contain gas vesicles (difficult to see). Forms thick blue-green scums.
Blooms in nutrient rich lakes/ponds in spring/summer
![[Microcystis] (sewage pond), X400. Photo: Manaaki Whenua Image](/assets/Tools-And-Resources/Identification/algae/microcystistrc__ScaleWidthWzEwMjRd.jpg)
![[Microcystis] (sewage pond), X400. Photo: Manaaki Whenua Image](/assets/Tools-And-Resources/Identification/algae/microcystistrc2__ScaleWidthWzEwMjRd.jpg)