Algae: Characteristics, Types, and Importance

What is the characteristic of algae cell walls that is shared with other plant cells?

What is the primary role of algae in aquatic ecosystems?

Which type of algae is commonly used in sushi?

What is a unique feature of Diatoms?

What is one of the industrial uses of algae?

What is the full form of EFB in biotechnology?

Which two techniques enabled the birth of modern biotechnology?

What is the specific DNA sequence responsible for initiating replication?

What is an autonomously replicating circular extra-chromosomal DNA?

Who are the scientists credited with the discovery of plasmids?

What is the first recombinant DNA formed by?

What are restriction endonucleases also known as?

What is the enzyme responsible for linking antibiotic resistance genes with plasmid vectors?

What are the three basic steps in genetically modifying an organism?

What was the function of the two enzymes isolated in 1963?

Algae

Definition

Algae are simple, aquatic, photosynthetic organisms that belong to the plant kingdom.
They are eukaryotic, meaning their cells have a true nucleus.

Characteristics

Algae are primarily aquatic, found in fresh, brackish, or saltwater environments.
They can be unicellular or multicellular.
They have cell walls containing cellulose, a characteristic shared with other plant cells.
Algae have chloroplasts, which contain the pigment chlorophyll, responsible for photosynthesis.

Types of Algae

Green Algae (Chlorophyta): most diverse group, includes seaweeds like spirulina and chlorella.
Red Algae (Rhodophyta): includes dulse and nori, commonly used in sushi.
Brown Algae (Phaeophyta): includes kelp and seaweed.
Yellow-Green Algae (Xanthophyta): small group, includes species like vaucheria.
Diatoms (Bacillariophyta): unique, glass-like cell walls made of silica.

Ecological Importance

Algae are primary producers, providing oxygen and serving as a food source for aquatic animals.
They contribute to aquatic ecosystems, influencing water quality and supporting marine biodiversity.

Economic Importance

Algae are used as:
- Food sources (e.g., spirulina, nori).
- Fertilizers and animal feed.
- Thickeners and stabilizers in food products.
- Sources of biofuels and other industrial products.

Learn about the characteristics, types, and ecological and economic importance of algae, including their role in aquatic ecosystems and human uses. Discover the different types of algae, from green to red, brown, and yellow-green, and how they contribute to our environment and economy.