Algae

kelp forest

Algae

Kingdom ProtistaEukaryotic with chloroplasts - autotrophic some are

unicellular

Multicellular algae are popularly called seaweeds (not plants). No leaves, stems, roots, or flowers.

Thallus: the complete bodyBlades - leaf like, no veinsPneumatocysts – air bladder - gas filled bladder-keeps

blade near light. May contain carbon monoxide or other toxic gas.

Stipe - stem likeHoldfast - looks like root but does not absorb food or

H2O. Well developed in kelp.

3 types of Seaweed:

1. Green algae – phylum Chlorophyta about 10% are marine Coralline green algae - contains calcium, helps build coral reef. This is dead man’s fingers green algae

2. Brown algae – Phaeophyta -15,000 species are all marineKelpsfood source for many people - sushi, seaweed

Macrocytis - common type found in kelp beds or forestsHabitat for many organisms

3. Red algae - Phylum Rhodophyta 4,000 species; mostly marine

Red color, significant human uses.Some are parasitic and derive all nutrients from the

host.Encrusting coralline red algae helps build coral reefs.

corallina, a coralline red algae

Uses of Algae

• Eastern cultures commonly use for food• Western cultures extract polysaccharides

thickening, emulsifying and gel. Undigestible, adds bulk to digestive system

Carrageenan, algin, agar, alginate• Some brown kelp, Macrocystis can grow a foot a

day• Harvested like wheat for human uses.

Kelp harvesting ship based out of San Diego

Powdered kelp

-bakery icings cleaners-cooked/instant pudding agar for microbiology-candies laxatives-fruit juices capsules and tablets-jams and jellies lotions and creams-salad dressings shampoos-whipped toppings toothpaste-milk shakes pastry filling-chocolate milk adhesives -cheeses syrups -cottage cheese explosives-ice cream

There are some marine plants that contribute to primary production: like these sea grasses that are true plants.

surf grass

True plants that live on tropical ocean shores

Monera, Protista, and Plantae are all marine producers with Protista contributing the most.