Photosynthesis in Seaweeds and Marine Ecosystems

These flashcards cover the key concepts related to photosynthesis, its processes, and marine algae as discussed in the lecture on seaweeds and their ecological significance.

Photosynthesis

The process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose.

Chlorophyll

A green pigment found in plants and algae that is crucial for photosynthesis, absorbing light energy.

Accessory Pigments

Pigments other than chlorophyll that assist in capturing light energy for photosynthesis.

Fucus vesiculosis

A species of brown algae commonly known as rockweed, found on the east coast, characterized by air bladders.

Phycobilins

Red or bluish pigments found in red algae that absorb light in the yellow-green range.

Zonation

The distribution of different species of seaweeds at various heights and depths along the shore.

Carotenoids

Accessory pigments that provide red, orange, or yellow coloration to plants and help absorb light in the 400-500 nm range.

Chloroplasts

Cell organelles in photosynthetic organisms where photosynthesis takes place.

Temporal Isolation

A pre-zygotic barrier to reproduction that occurs when species release gametes at different times.

SixCO₂ + 12H₂O = C6H12O6 + 6O₂ + 6H₂O

The chemical equation representing photosynthesis, where carbon dioxide and water are converted into glucose and oxygen.