Algae and Microalgae Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What type of nutrient source do heterotrophs primarily rely on for energy?

Light energy

Mineral nutrients

Inorganic carbon

Organic carbon (correct)

Which group of organisms typically does not reproduce sexually?

Diatoms

Euglenophytes

Cyanobacteria (correct)

Green algae

What are gametes formed in during sexual reproduction?

Sporangia

Antheridia and oogonia (correct)

Centrioles

Cilia

Which type of diatom exhibits radial symmetry?

Centrales diatoms Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the health benefits of fucoxanthin derived from brown algae?

Normalizes glycemia Signup and view all the answers

Which category do photoheterotrophs belong to based on their energy source?

Both light and organic energy Signup and view all the answers

What defines the lower limit of marine environments for phytoplankton growth?

0.0005% surface light Signup and view all the answers

Carotenoids extracted from microalgae can help in cancer treatment due to their?

Cytostatic and pro-apoptotic activities Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary function of ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids derived from microalgae?

Prevent pregnancy complications Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following characteristics is associated with secondary metabolites in algae?

Roles in defense and survival Signup and view all the answers

What role does fucoxanthin play in cancer treatment?

Inhibits tumor growth and invasivity Signup and view all the answers

How does microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) benefit pigment extraction from microalgae?

Increases pressure on cell walls for disruption Signup and view all the answers

What ecological significance does pigment diversity in marine phytoplankton provide?

Supports biodiversity and global carbon fixation Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the therapeutic applications of using microalgae as cell factories?

Production of therapeutic proteins Signup and view all the answers

How can phototherapy utilizing microalgae pigments be effectively applied for acne treatment?

Employing antibacterial properties against specific bacteria Signup and view all the answers

Which statement correctly describes the role of pigments in microalgae?

They are crucial for photosynthesis optimization Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a function of tumor-suppressive strategies?

Promotion of metastasis Signup and view all the answers

What is a notable effect of pigments from microalgae concerning inflammation?

Exhibiting anti-inflammatory effects Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of trichomes in cyanobacteria?

Nitrogen fixation Signup and view all the answers

Which structure is primarily responsible for the buoyancy of diatoms?

Frustule Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'primary endosymbiosis' refer to?

The engulfment of a prokaryote by a eukaryote Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the sulcus in dinoflagellates?

Houses flagella used for movement Signup and view all the answers

Which term describes the specialized nitrogen-fixing cells in cyanobacteria?

Heterocyst Signup and view all the answers

What are coccoliths primarily composed of?

Calcium carbonate Signup and view all the answers

What unique feature is present in the upper valve of a diatom's frustule?

Epitheca Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following structures is involved in light harvesting in cyanobacteria?

Phycobilisome Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes primary metabolites from secondary metabolites in algae?

Secondary metabolites are associated with survival and communication. Signup and view all the answers

What role do ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) from microalgae play in human health?

They can help prevent various pregnancy complications. Signup and view all the answers

How do microalgae pigments assist in cancer treatment?

By enhancing the effectiveness of cytotoxic drugs. Signup and view all the answers

What ecological role does pigment diversity in marine phytoplankton serve?

Contributing to global carbon fixation and oxygen production. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key advantage of using microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) for pigment extraction?

It effectively disrupts cell walls to release pigments. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about the biodiversity of marine genetic resources is accurate?

Challenges in studying marine biodiversity include technological limitations. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of mucilage secreted by diatoms?

To provide buoyancy and protection Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant health benefit associated with fucoxanthin extracted from brown algae?

It inhibits tumor invasivity and metastasis. Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary application of microalgae as cell factories?

To synthesize therapeutic proteins like hormones and vaccines. Signup and view all the answers

Which form of diatoms exhibits non-radial symmetry?

Pennate diatoms Signup and view all the answers

What is a unique characteristic of sponges in comparison to other marine organisms?

They are characterized by asymmetry. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of algae lack the ability to reproduce sexually?

Euglenophytes Signup and view all the answers

How does phototherapy using microalgae pigments work in treating acne?

It uses natural pigments with phototherapy to target acne-causing bacteria. Signup and view all the answers

What defines a mixotrophic alga?

Ability to utilize both light and organic carbon sources Signup and view all the answers

In which habitat would cyanobacteria most likely thrive?

Hot springs at temperatures up to 75ºC Signup and view all the answers

What is a defining feature of thallophytes?

Hierarchical cell function division Signup and view all the answers

How are gametes of algae typically formed?

In specialized structures called gametangia Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes coccolithophores from other algae?

Secretion of calcium carbonate plates Signup and view all the answers

Which type of kingdom do red algae belong to?

Kingdom Plantae Signup and view all the answers

What is a common characteristic of unicellular protophytes?

Lack of cellular organization Signup and view all the answers

Which groups of phytoplankton are commonly found in freshwater habitats?

Dinoflagellates and cyanobacteria Signup and view all the answers

Which class of algae is classified under the phylum Heterokontophyta?

Chrysophyceae Signup and view all the answers

What is a function of the coccosphere in algae?

Flotation and light regulation Signup and view all the answers

What type of environment do brown algae typically inhabit?

Marine ecosystems Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Algae and Microalgae: Biology, Applications, and Significance

Algae are categorized by their energy and carbon sources:
- Autotrophs: Light energy, inorganic carbon
- Heterotrophs: Organic energy, organic carbon
- Mixotrophs: Light and organic energy, inorganic and organic carbon
- Photoheterotrophs: Light energy, organic carbon
Algae reproduce asexually (spores) and sexually (gametes). Some lack sexual reproduction. Cyanobacteria reproduce asexually, but exchange genetic material.
Trichomes: Hair-like structures, often chains of cells, in cyanobacteria.
Rhizoid: Root-like structures in some algae for anchorage.
Frustule: The siliceous outer wall of diatoms.
Cytopharynx: Specialized feeding structure in some protozoans.
Theory of endosymbiosis: Hypothesis explaining the origin of organelles like mitochondria and chloroplasts.
Sulcus: Groove in dinoflagellates housing flagella.
Cingulum: Groove in the surface of dinoflagellates or diatoms, often housing flagella.
Coccosphere: Spherical structure formed by the arrangement of coccoliths around the cell.
Primary Endosymbiosis: The initial engulfment of a prokaryote by a eukaryote, leading to organelles like chloroplasts.
Coccolith: Calcium carbonate plates produced by coccolithophores.
Cauloid: Stem-like structure in algae.
Hypotheca: Bottom half of a diatom's siliceous cell wall or frustule.
Heterocyst: Specialized nitrogen-fixing cells in some cyanobacteria.
Pigments: Molecules like chlorophyll, carotenoids, and phycobilins that capture light for photosynthesis.
Centroplasm: Non-pigmented region in algal cells where the nucleus is located.
Stigma: A light-sensitive structure, often associated with phototaxis.
Mastigonemes: Hair-like structures on flagella, increasing propulsion efficiency.
Ejectisomes: Organelles in some algae used for defense or movement.
Periplast: A structure covering the plasma membrane in some algae.
Cortex: Outer layer of certain algal thalli.
Chromatoplasm: Pigmented part od the cytoplasm in photosynthetic organisms.
Cyanella: Endosymbiotic cyanobacteria or photosynthetic components of Glaucophytes.
Haptonema: Unique organelle in haptophytes involved in feeding or sensory functions.
Epitheca: The upper valve of a diatom frustule.
Medulla: The innermost part of a multilayered algal thallus.
Nucleomorph: Vestigial nucleus found in some algal endosymbionts.
Phycobilisome: Protein complexes involved in light harvesting in cyanobacteria and red algae.
Phycocolloids: Gel-forming substances derived from algae (agar carrageenan).
Phylloid: Leaf-like structures in algae.
Raphe: Groove in some diatom species aiding in movement.

Algae Reproduction and Life Cycles

Algae exhibit complex life cycles with alternating haploid (gametophyte) and diploid (sporophyte) phases (alternation of generations).
Sporophytes produce spores in sporangia.
Gametophytes produce gametes in gametangia (antheridia and oogonia).
Gametangia and sporangia typically lack protective coverings.

Morphology and Habitat

Diatoms: Centric diatoms show radial symmetry; pennate diatoms have non-radial symmetry.
Cosmopolitan distribution: Primarily aquatic, but some species inhabit subaerial habitats (lichens) or extreme environments like hot springs (up to 75°C) or arctic/antarctic regions.
Marine environments: Phytoplankton (dinoflagellates, diatoms, coccolithophorids, cyanobacteria) and phytobenthos (green, brown, and red algae) populate various marine zones, from the splash zone to depths with 0.0005% surface light. Also freshwater phytoplankton and periphyton.
Coccosphere Functions: protection against microzooplankton predation, flotation buoyancy, light regulation, biochemistry.
Dinokont form: with a transversal and longitudinal flagellum.
Desmokont form: flagella arise from a pore in the apical part.

Algae Pigments: Health benefits and applications

Fucoxanthin: A carotenoid with notable health benefits including glycemic and inflammatory regulation and inhibition of cancer cell invasion.
Microalgae pigments: Possess cytostatic and pro-apoptotic activities against cancer, inhibiting tumor formation, growth, and spread. They can sensitize tumor cells to cytotoxic drugs. Exhibits potential as photosensitisers in PDT (photodynamic therapy).

Primary and Secondary Metabolites

Primary metabolites: Crucial for cellular function: membranes, walls, exopolysaccharides, and energy storage compounds (polysaccharides, lipids).
Secondary metabolites: Not directly involved in essential processes, but are involved in defense, competition and communication, including terpenes, pigments, toxins, polyamines, alkaloids, sterols, and heterocycles.

ω-3 PUFAs and Microalgae

ω-3 PUFAs: Have health benefits including reducing pregnancy complications, preventing atherosclerosis/myocardial infarction, increasing response to viral/bacterial threats.
Mechanism: ω-3 PUFAs affect cytoplasmic membrane fluidity and are linked to better chemotherapy absorption. Relevant for pregnancy, fetal development, cardio protection, immunity, and inflammation.

Microalgae Phototherapy for Acne

Antibacterial phototherapy: Extracts from microalgae offer natural, eco-friendly photoactive agents to improve mild-to-moderate acne.
Targets S. aureus, S. epidermidis, and C. acnes.

Microwave-Assisted Extraction (MAE) of Pigments

Extraction method: MAE is the only method allowing the total extraction of microalgae pigments under controlled temperature conditions.
Mechanism: Microwaves vibrate water/polar molecules, leading to increased intracellular temperatures, resulting in water evaporation and cell disruption.

Functional & Ecological Significance of Microalgae Pigments

Photosynthesis/Protection: Diverse pigments optimize photosynthesis by absorbing various light wavelengths, protecting against photodamage, and enhancing energy conversion.
Ecological importance: Diverse pigments reduce competition and support biodiversity. Also contribute to global carbon fixation and oxygen production.

Microalgae as Cell Factories

Therapeutic protein synthesis: Microalgae efficiently synthesize therapeutic proteins (hormones, cytokines, antibodies, vaccines).
Advantages: Easily grown, no pathogenic viruses, prions, or endotoxins.

Metabolism

Many algae are nutritionally versatile.
Mixotrophs: Algae can exhibit autotrophic and heterotrophic behaviors, adapting to environmental conditions based on organic compounds and light.

Algae Reproduction

Reproduction involves asexual (spores) and sexual (gametes) methods, and some groups lack sexual reproduction.

Levels of Organization (Algae)

Protophytes: Unicellular or inconsistent aggregates lacking functional specialization.
Coccoid: Unicellular. Examples: Chlorella, Pinnularia, Micrasterias
Monadoid: Unicellular, motile. Examples: Phacus, Ceratium, Euglena, Chlamydomonas.
Colonial
- Palmelloid: Colonies lacking defined form, cells grouped in a gelatinous matrix. Examples: Sphaerocystis, Gloeocystis
- Cenobium: Colonies with defined form, specific cell numbers depending on the genus. Examples: Synura, Gonium, Pediastrum
Thallophytes: Mulicellular, with work division, and intercellular cohesion. Aquatic, lack water regulation. Thallus (algal body). Examples: various branched/unbranched filamentous types, pseudoparenchymatous, parenchymatous, and siphonal thalli.

Additional Information

Classification and Nomenclature: Algae are classified into various kingdoms (Plantae, Chromista, Bacteria, Protozoa) and phyla, reflecting their diversity.
Diatom Cell Covering: Diatoms have elaborate cell covers (frustules) with ornate designs and pores, important for taxonomy. Mucilage is secreted through the pores. Each frustule has two valves (epitheca and hypotheca) fitting together.
Primary and Secondary Metabolites Differences: Primary metabolites are essential for cellular functions and organization (e.g., membranes, cell walls, energy stores). Secondary metabolites are not essential, but often involved in defence, competition, and communication.
Health Benefits of Microalgae Pigments: Microalgae pigments can have various health benefits, e.g., anti-cancer (fucoxanthin inhibits cancer cell invasivity, metastasis and angiogenesis etc.) and phototherapeutic (treat mild to moderate acne) properties due to their cytostatic, pro-apoptotic activities.
ω-3 PUFAs: These fatty acids are beneficial for human health by reducing pregnancy complications, preventing atherosclerosis and myocardial infarction. They aid in response to viral/bacterial threats, have a cardioprotective effect, and help with immunity and inflammation while enhancing chemotherapy absorption.
Microwave-assisted Extraction (MAE): The only known method to fully extract microalgae pigments under controlled temperature, by vibrating polar molecules, causing water evaporation and cell disruption.
Ecological significance of pigment diversity: Diverse pigments optimize photosynthesis for algae, providing them protection against photodamage and enhanced energy conversion. Diverse pigments also reduce competition, support biodiversity, and contribute to global carbon fixation/oxygen production.
Microalgae as therapeutic protein factories: Microalgae efficiently produce various therapeutic proteins (hormones, cytokines, antibodies, vaccines), with the advantages of being easy to grow and lacking pathogenic components.

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Description

Test your knowledge on the biology, reproduction, and significance of algae and microalgae. This quiz covers their classification, life cycles, and various morphological features. Suitable for students and enthusiasts of biology and environmental science.