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Multiple Choice
Which of the following are characteristics of red algae?
A
They contain chlorophyll a and phycobiliproteins.
B
They are known for their silica-based cell walls.
C
They are primarily found in freshwater environments.
D
They have flagella at some stage of their life cycle.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Red algae, scientifically known as Rhodophyta, are primarily characterized by their pigmentation. They contain chlorophyll a, which is common in all photosynthetic organisms, and phycobiliproteins, which give them their distinctive red color.
Phycobiliproteins are accessory pigments that help red algae capture light energy for photosynthesis, especially in deeper or shaded aquatic environments where light penetration is limited.
Red algae do not have silica-based cell walls. Instead, their cell walls are primarily composed of cellulose and other polysaccharides, such as agar and carrageenan, which are used in various industrial applications.
Red algae are predominantly found in marine environments, rather than freshwater. They are especially abundant in tropical and subtropical oceans, often forming coral reefs and contributing to marine biodiversity.
Unlike some other algae, red algae do not have flagella at any stage of their life cycle. Their reproduction and movement are not dependent on flagella, which distinguishes them from other algal groups like green algae and brown algae.