Algae
Algae are eukaryotic organism that have nucleus and other organelles closed in a membrane. Algae are ubiquitous in aquatic environments, including ponds, brackish waters, rivers, lakes, and even snow. Regardless of their varied shades, they typically exhibit a green color. For example, the algae inhabiting snow possess both chlorophyll and carotenoid pigments, imparting a crimson tint to the surrounding snow. Examples of unicellular algae are diatoms, Euglenophyta, and dinoflagellates, whereas giant kelp and brown algae are multicellular algae.
Phycology
The term “phycology” derives from the Greek word “Phykos,” which refers to seaweed. Sometimes it is also called “algology.” William Henry Harvey and M.O.P Iyengar are known as the father of modern phycology and the father of Indian phycology, respectively. Phycology emerged as a distinct field of study in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Phycology, the study of algae, encompasses the identification and categorization of algal species. In the traditional system of classification, known as the five-kingdom scheme, algae and protozoa are classified under the Kingdom Protista. As such, it is essential to understand these species and their role within their ecosystem. Algae grow in moisture-rich areas such as ponds, drains, lakes, oceans, etc. Algae are responsible for the production of the maximum amount of oxygen on planet Earth.
Table of Content
- What is Phycology?
- Algae
- Characteristics of Algae
- Study of Algae
- Applications of Algae
- Examples of some common algae
- Algaculture