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What is the basis of classification of algae?

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HARITHA,Subject Matter Expert at Edumarz


Solution:Algae are classified into different types based on the pigments present in them.On the basis of pigments, algae are divided into three classes:Chlorophyceae, Phaeophyceae, and Rhodophyceae.


Algae


Algae are chlorophyll containing, simple, thalloid, autotrophic and mainly aquatic(both marine and freshwater) organisms.They are found in different types of habitats such as moist stones, soils and wood.They also form symbiotic relationships with other organisms such as fungi(lichen) and animals(sloth bear).The mode of reproduction of algae is by vegetative propagation,sexual and asexual methods.

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 Chlorophyceae 


  • The members of this class are called green algae

  • Plant body present as unicellular,colonial or filamentous form

  • Pigments chlorophyll a and chlorophyll b present in larger amounts and therefore they are known as green algae.These pigments are present in chloroplasts.

  • Most species contain storage bodies called pyrenoids present in chloroplasts

  • Green algae also contain rigid cell walls formed of an inner layer of cellulose and an outer layer of pectose


Phaeophyceae


  • The members of this class known as  brown algae 

  • They are found mainly  in marine habitats.

  • chlorophyll a, chlorophyll c,carotenoids and xanthophylls are the pigments present in them


Rhodophyceae 


  • The members of this class are called red algae

  • They possess red pigment r-phycoerythrin in their bodies

  • Majority of the red algae are found in  marine habitats 

They reproduce vegetative means by fragmentation

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