Definition

• The word "phyco" is derived from a Greek word "phykos" that means seaweed. Phycology is the study of the cells, structure, function, life cycles, ecology and other properties of algae. It is also called algology.
  
  

Algae

• An alga (singular for algae) is a plant-like organism that uses sunlight to produce energy in a process called photosynthesis. Algae are extremely important organisms because they are considered to be the primary oxygen-producing organisms on Earth.
  
  

Significance

• Phycology determines the commercial source of products derived directly or indirectly from algae. For instance, a carrageenan is a commercial product that is indirectly derived from algae. It is used as a thickener in medicines and ice cream. On the other hand, a commercial product directly produced from the cell wall of red algae called agar is widely used in laboratories.
  
  

Environmental Science Investigation

• The advances in the study of phycology led to important environmental science investigations such as determination of algae-related water pollution. For instance, scientists discovered that the bloom (overpopulation) of poison-producing dinoflagellates causes red discoloration of the coastal waters, or what is now known as the "Red tide."
  
  

Bioluminescent and Milky Sea

• The bioluminescent milky sea is a rare phenomenon observed in the Indian Ocean and characterized as a glowing ocean with a milky-like appearance. Phycologists attribute this bioluminescent phenomenon to the glowing property of dinoflagellates, the same subgroup of algae responsible for causing red tide.
  The bioluminescent property of algae is an important aspect in Phycology because it facilitates multidisciplinary research and developments such as the recombinant DNA technology.
  
  

Sea Forest Study

• The term sea forest pertains to a kelp forest that is a marine habitat that supports a diverse underwater ecosystem. The study of phycology and sea forests led to a better understanding of how algae could support and affect the balance and food chain on earth starting from the marine ecosystem up to the complex human ecosystems.