Translation guide
In Japanese, the general term for algae is 藻 (も), but in everyday contexts, specific types like seaweed or pond scum are more common. The translation depends on the context: marine macroalgae (seaweed), freshwater microalgae (pond scum), or scientific/biological references.
Referring to algae as a broad biological group, including both micro and macro forms.
The most direct and general term for algae in scientific or formal contexts. Can refer to any type of algae, from microscopic to large seaweeds.
藻は光合成を行う生物です。
Algae are organisms that perform photosynthesis.
A more technical term for algae as a taxonomic group, often used in biology and environmental science.
この湖では藻類の異常発生が問題になっています。
An algal bloom is a problem in this lake.
Referring to large algae that grow in the sea, often used as food or seen on beaches.
The standard term for marine algae or seaweed, especially edible varieties like nori, wakame, and kombu.
海藻は日本食に欠かせません。
Seaweed is essential to Japanese cuisine.
海岸にたくさんの海藻が打ち上げられていた。
A lot of seaweed had washed up on the shore.
Can also refer to seaweed in general, but 海藻 is more specific and common for marine contexts.
岩に藻がついている。
There is algae on the rocks.
Referring to green, slimy algae that grows in ponds, aquariums, or stagnant water.
Used for freshwater algae, often with a negative connotation of slime or scum.
池に藻がたくさん発生している。
A lot of algae is growing in the pond.
Specifically refers to blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) blooms that turn water green, often in lakes or ponds.
Literally 'water grime', can refer to algae buildup in aquariums or water containers, but also to limescale. Context-dependent.
Referring to edible microalgae used in supplements or health foods.
Can be used in the context of edible algae, but often specific names are used.
このサプリメントには藻が含まれています。
This supplement contains algae.
The specific term for chlorella, a popular health food algae.
The specific term for spirulina, another microalgae used as a supplement.
In everyday English, 'algae' often refers to pond scum or aquarium growth. In Japanese, the specific context determines the best word. For seaweed, use 海藻; for pond scum, 藻 is fine, but アオコ may be more precise for green water blooms.
藻 (も) is the broadest term, covering all algae. 海藻 (かいそう) specifically means marine algae/seaweed. 藻類 (そうるい) is a scientific term for the taxonomic group. In daily conversation, 海藻 is most common for edible seaweed, while 藻 is used for slimy growths.
In summer, blue-green algae blooms occur in the lake.
水槽の水垢を掃除する。
Clean the algae from the fish tank.
クロレラは栄養価が高いです。
Chlorella is highly nutritious.
スピルリナは健康食品として人気です。
Spirulina is popular as a health food.