Fikotsiashsh (Gr. Fikos - Algae, Kianos - Blue)

Phycocyans is a blue chromoprotein found in blue-green algae.

Chromoproteins are a group of pigments that give color to various organisms. Phycocyans belong to a subgroup of phycobilins - blue-green algae pigments.

The phycocyashin molecule has a porphyrin structure, like hemoglobin and chlorophyll. However, unlike them, in the center of the phycocyashin molecule there is a zinc atom, and not iron or magnesium.

Due to its structure, phycocyanium effectively absorbs red and orange light, giving the algae a characteristic blue-green color. This pigment plays an important role in the photosynthesis of blue-green algae.