Abstract
What are algae? Algae are organisms that perform photosynthesis; that is, they absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen (therefore they have chlorophyll, a group of green pigments used by photosynthetic organisms that convert sunlight into energy via photosynthesis) and live in water or in humid places. Algae have great variability and are divided into microalgae, small in size and only visible through a microscope, and macroalgae, which are larger in size, up to more than 50 m (the maximum recorded was 65 m), and have a greater diversity in the oceans. Thus, the term “algae” is commonly used to refer to “marine macroalgae or seaweeds”. It is estimated that 1800 different brown macroalgae, 6200 red macroalgae, and 1800 green macroalgae are found in the marine environment. Although the red algae are more diverse, the brown ones are the largest.
Highlights
The coloring of an alga is nothing more than the visible expression of the combination of the different photosynthetic pigments present in its cells. It has been more than a century since the distinction of the different phyla and classes of marine macroalgae was made with the help of their coloring
The shape or morphology of a given thallus is a very useful feature to distinguish the various species of macroalgae
In this type of reproduction, the formation of new individuals can be done through three distinct processes that invest in homogeneity; that is, the perpetuation of the genetic heritage of the “parent” is promoted: 1
Summary
Algae are single or multicellular organisms that live in water or in humid places. These organisms have chlorophyll (an organic pigment capable of absorbing and channeling the energy of sunlight), which is why they are able to perform photosynthesis, that is, the transformation of luminous energy into chemical energy, capturing carbon dioxide (CO2 ). Algae are distinguished from seagrass (angiosperms) because, unlike the latter, they do not have a vascular system (xylem and phloem). Algae on the seafloor have a holdfast and transport nutrients through the body by diffusion, while seagrasses are flowering vascular plants with roots and an internal transport system [1,2]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
