Green algae

Green algae are a large, informal grouping of algae consisting of the Chlorophyte and Charophyte algae, which are now placed in separate divisions.

Overview

The land plants, or Embryophyta, are thought to have emerged from the Charophytes. Therefore, in modern classification systems, green algae are considered relatives of the land plants.

Characteristics

Green algae are eukaryotic organisms that follow a reproduction cycle that involves alternation of generations. They contain two forms of chlorophyll, chlorophyll a and chlorophyll b, which gives them a bright green color. They also contain the accessory pigments beta carotene (a yellow pigment) and xanthophylls (yellow-green pigments).

Classification

The green algae include unicellular and multicellular flagellates, usually but not always with two flagella per cell, as well as various colonial, coccoid, and filamentous forms. In the Charales, the closest relatives of higher plants, full differentiation of tissues occurs.

Uses

Green algae are used in many cultures for various purposes. For example, Chlorella and Spirulina are used as dietary supplements. Some species of green algae, particularly of genera Trebouxia of the class Trebouxiophyceae and Chlorella of the class Chlorophyceae, are symbionts with fungi to form lichen.

See also

• Algae
• Chlorophyte
• Charophyte
• Embryophyta
• Chlorophyll
• Chlorella
• Spirulina
• Trebouxia
• Lichen

References

Green algae Resources
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