[3] The coloration of the protoplast is a light blue-green, appearing dark or brown due to optical effects of gas-filled vesicles.

[citation needed] Microcystis is capable of producing large surface blooms through a combination of rapid division and buoyancy regulation by production of gas-filled vesicles.

[citation needed] Because they can form large surface blooms, they are thought to be able to outcompete other phytoplankton by monopolizing light in the photic zone.

[4] Microcystis cells are also efficient at assimilating carbon from their environment; during large blooms, rampant photosynthesis can drive the pH of communities to < 9.0.

Recent efforts have suggested a combination of effective carbon-concentrating mechanisms and a potential ability to use urea as both a carbon and nitrogen source allows Microcystis to persist under these high-pH conditions.