Algae

Definition

Algae are photosynthetic eukaryotic microorganisms found in various aquatic environments. They can be unicellular or multicellular, and play a crucial role in producing oxygen and serving as the base of many aquatic food webs.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Algae contain chlorophyll and other pigments that enable them to perform photosynthesis.
2. They can reproduce both sexually and asexually, depending on environmental conditions.
3. Unicellular algae include diatoms and dinoflagellates, which are significant in marine ecosystems.
4. Multicellular forms like seaweeds include brown algae, red algae, and green algae.
5. Some algae produce toxins that can cause harmful algal blooms (HABs), impacting marine life and human health.

Review Questions

• What role do algae play in aquatic food webs?
• How do unicellular and multicellular algae differ?
• What are harmful algal blooms (HABs) and what impact can they have?

Related terms

Protozoa:

Single-celled eukaryotes that can be free-living or parasitic.

Photosynthesis:

The process by which organisms convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose.

Chlorophyll:

A green pigment found in the chloroplasts of plants, algae, and cyanobacteria essential for photosynthesis.