Algae

Eukarya

The domain that includes organisms with eukaryotic cells.

Protista

A diverse group of organisms that can be unicellular to multicellular, and microscopic to giant.

Autotrophic

Organisms that make their own food through processes like photosynthesis.

Heterotrophic

Organisms that obtain food by absorbing nutrients from other organisms.

Paraphyletic group

A group that includes some but not all descendants of a common ancestor.

Chlorophyll

A green pigment that captures light energy for photosynthesis.

Fucoxanthin

A pigment found in golden algae and diatoms that gives them a yellow-green or golden-brown color.

Diatoms

Unicellular algae with silica cell walls, known for forming diatomaceous earth.

Bioluminescence

The ability of certain organisms, like some dinoflagellates, to produce light.

Holdfasts

Structures that anchor multicellular algae to the substrate.

Phycobilins

Pigments found in red algae that give them their characteristic color.

Alternation of Generations

A reproductive cycle that alternates between haploid gametophyte and diploid sporophyte stages.

Algal blooms

Rapid increases in algae populations that can release toxins and harm marine life.

Diatomaceous earth

A naturally occurring, soft, siliceous sedimentary rock that is easily crumbled into a fine white to off-white powder.

Agar

A gelatinous substance derived from red algae, used in laboratory cultures.

Alginates

Substances extracted from brown algae used as thickening agents in food and cosmetics.

Primary producers

Organisms that produce energy available for other organisms in an ecosystem, primarily through photosynthesis.

Ecosystem energy flow

The transfer of energy through a food chain within an ecosystem.

Climate Research

Studies focusing on how organisms like algae can impact climate regulation through processes like photosynthesis.