Welcome to Canadian Phycological Culture Centre

Canadian phycological culture centre (cpcc) for algae, cyanobacteria, and lemna at the University of Waterloo

Welcome to the Canadian Phycological Culture Centre (CPCC), formerly known as the University of Toronto Culture Collection of Algae and Cyanobacteria (UTCC). Founded in 1987, the CPCC provides research quality cultures, culture medium, and other related services to educational institutions, government and commercial laboratories worldwide.

Housed at the University of Waterloo in the Department of Biology, the CPCC is internationally recognized as a major service collection of living freshwater algal, cyanobacterial and Lemna spp. (duckweed) cultures. Strains are often used for environmental research and biotechnology applications including:

  • a potential source of biofuels and natural novel products
  • carbon sequestration
  • bioremediation
  • bio-control and toxic effects of cyanobacteria
  • toxin detection methods
  • algal bloom studies
  • ecotoxicity testing
  • physiology and molecular basis of metal toxicity and tolerance in algae
  • the impact of ultra-violet radiation on algae
  • taxonomic identification of algae by DNA barcoding
  • taste and odour problems in drinking water
  • aesthetic landscaping (i.e., algae gardens)

Support the collection

The CPCC is a nonprofit facility providing critical infrastructure and services to maintain a collection of important aquatic species. Donations are eligible for a tax receipt and directly support the diversity and health of the collection. Your support of our centre is truly appreciated.


Last updated: February, 2024.

Logo designed by Daniel Hsia; photos provided courtesy of Judy Acreman, Daniel Hsia, and Mary Olaveson. Images are subject to copyright; please do not copy or reproduce them without permission.

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