Plant-like Protists: Algae

Practice questions covering the definition, structure, and classification of algae based on plant-like protist lecture notes.

What are the primary characteristics of Algae?

Algae are a diverse group of protists that can be unicellular or multicellular, are autotrophic (containing chloroplasts for photosynthesis), and are mostly aquatic.

In what two ways do Algae differ from plants?

Algae lack tissue differentiation (having no roots, stems, or leaves) and their reproductive structures differ from those of plants.

What is the term for the body portion of algae?

Thallus

What is the role of unicellular algae in aquatic ecosystems?

They compose phytoplankton, which is the population of photosynthetic organisms that forms the base of aquatic food chains.

What characterizes a colonial algae structure?

It consists of groups of cells acting in a coordinated manner, where some cells become specialized.

How is the filamentous structure of algae described?

Slender and rod-shaped, it is composed of rows of cells joined end to end, with some having special structures to anchor the body to the ocean floor.

What are the features of the multicellular thallus in Giant kelp (Macrocystis)?

It has rubbery leaf-like portions, stemlike regions, and enlarged air bladders.

What are the characteristics of the phylum Euglenophyta?

They are flagellates with chloroplasts.

What organisms belong to the phylum Pyrrophyta?

Dinoflagellates

What organisms belong to the phylum Chrysophyta?

Golden protists