Taxonomy & Phylum of Algae Flashcards

Classification Importance

• Classification helps identify relationships among organisms.
• Promotes clear identification of key traits for accurate taxonomy.
• Prevents confusion caused by varying common names across regions.

Scientific Naming

• Scientific names consist of two taxa: Genus and Species.
• Genus groups closely related species; species denotes the most specific classification.

Taxonomic Hierarchy

• Kingdom groups phyla together.
• Phylum (or division) consists of classes.
• Class contains related orders; order groups related families.
• Families group similar genera; genus consists of similar species.
• Species represented by a Latin name.

Classification Methodology

• Initially based on anatomical features.
• Modern taxonomy emphasizes theoretical evolutionary relationships.
• Genetic analysis is prioritized over anatomical comparisons.

Classification Challenges

• Organisms may not fit perfectly into established classifications.
• Presence of intermediate classifications complicates taxonomy.

Six Kingdom System

• The system includes Monera, Protista, Fungi, Plantae, and Animalia.
• Monera is divided into Eubacteria and Archaebacteria in contemporary classifications.

Three Domain System

• Divides life into three domains: Archae, Bacteria, and Eukarya.

Endosymbiosis

• Describes a symbiotic relationship where one organism lives inside another, benefiting both.
• Early eukaryotes may have originated from large prokaryotes engulfing smaller ones without harm.

Cyanobacteria

• Also known as Blue Green Algae, though not true algae and can appear red.
• Considered the first organisms capable of photosynthesis.
• Played a significant role in oxygenating the atmosphere.

Algal Phyla

• Algae classified into seven phyla within the Protista kingdom:
  • Bacillariophyta
  • Dinophyta
  • Chlorophyta
  • Rhodophyta
  • Phaeophyta
  • Euglenophyta
  • Chrysophyta

Phylum Bacillariophyta (Diatoms)

• Highly productive phytoplankton, larger than prokaryotes, categorized as microplankton.
• Characterized by a two-part silicon shell.
• Can reproduce both sexually and asexually.
• Some species produce toxins, contributing to harmful algal blooms (HAB).

Phylum Dinophyta (Dinoflagellates)

• Second most productive algal group after diatoms.
• Utilize flagella for swimming; larger than diatoms, still considered microplankton.
• Capable of bioluminescence and some species contribute to coral reef formation.
• Associated with toxic red tides; certain toxins are more lethal than cyanide.

Phylum Chlorophyta (Green Algae)

• Considered macroalgae due to multicellularity; some are unicellular.
• Contain chlorophyll a and b, suggesting a link to terrestrial plant ancestry.
• Do not have roots, but possess holdfasts resembling roots, serving as anchors without nutrient absorption.

Phylum Rhodophyta (Red Algae)

• Comprises both freshwater and marine species, mostly categorized as macroalgae.
• Have chlorophyll a and b but lack cellulose in cell walls.
• Possess phycoerythrins, red pigments allowing survival in deeper waters by absorbing blue light.

Phylum Phaeophyta (Brown Algae)

• More structurally complex than other algae, featuring gas-filled buoyant structures called pneumatocysts.
• Includes kelp and sargassum species.

Kelp

• Largest species within the brown algae, giant kelp can exceed 30 cm in growth.
• Essential foundation species for various tropical ecosystems.

Sargassum

• Comprises large drifting colonies that support complex ecosystems.
• Prominent in the Sargasso Sea located in the North Atlantic.

This set of flashcards covers key concepts related to the taxonomy and phylum classifications of algae. It highlights the importance of taxonomy in identifying relationships among organisms and understanding scientific nomenclature. Perfect for students studying biology or environmental science.