Eukaryotes - Algae

Algae

large diverse group of photosynthetic eukaryotes ranging from unicellular to multicellular forms. Do not cause infection in humans

Mixotrophic algae

can perform photosynthesis and uptake organic material for energy

Heterotrophic algae

obtain nutrients from organic material; some are parasitic

Algae reproduction

can reproduce asexually or sexually depending on species

Blue-green algae (cyanobacteria)

chloroplast of many other algae is derived from cyanobacteria

prokaryotic organisms

can produce toxins called canotoxins

Cyanotoxins

toxins produced by cyanobacteria that can harm humans and animals; neurotoxic

Dinoflagellates

single celled eukaryotes

have both mitochondria and chloroplast

can produce toxins called dinotoxins 

Where does the red color of dinoflagellates come from

red algal plastids

Dinotoxins

toxins produced by dinoflagellates; neurotoxic and harmful to marine life and humans

Red algae (Rhodophyta)

oldest group of eukaryotic algae

multiply by sexual reproduction 

have chloroplasts

lack flagella and centrioles

Which algae are part of harmful algal blooms

cyanobacteria and dinoflagellates