Algae and Macrophytes Flashcards
What are algae?
Diverse taxonomic group photosynthetic plankton
What types of freshwater algae are there?
Benthic and phytoplankton
5 types of algae
Diatoms, green, blue-green, yellow-green, red-algae
What is a diatom?
microscopic, radial symmetry, silica skeleton, common component of biofilm, some are filamentous colonial.
Blue-gree algae
Cyanobacteria, share common characteristics with bacteria, can produce natural toxins known as toxins, some can fix nitrogen
Yellow-green algae
more common in marine env.
Red algae
More common not the coast
How are algae classified?
according to microhabitat like rocks, sand, plants, aquatic animals
Explain algae physiognomy
Physiognomy is the physical structure of the species. Algae very widely in shape and form, small to large.
Key factors that affect the establishment of benthic algae
biological and physical
regulated by abiotic and biotic factors
How do scientists use benthic algae as water quality indicators?
They respond directly to contaminants and represent the base of the food chain, easy to identify, and spatially compact.
What are macrophytes?
Vascular plants adapted to living in water.
Why are macrophytes important?
Provide habitat heterogeneity and a habitat structure for aquatic organisms.
How do macrophytes affect predation?
Increases habitat complexity and provides refuge for prey.
