Question

Why are pigment colours important traits for the classification of algae?

Answer 1

Algae: Algae are further divided into three classes. The presence or absence of pigments helps in the classification of algae. The three classes of algae are as follows:-

1. Chlorophyceae: Chlorophyll a and b are presently imparting a green colour. Chlorophyceae are also referred to as ‘green algae’.
2. Phaeophyceae: Chlorophyll a and c and fucoxanthin are found. Fucoxanthin is responsible for imparting brown colour referring it to as ‘brown algae’.
3. Rhodophyceae: Chlorophyll a and d and phycoerythrin are present imparting red colour. Rhodophyceae is also said as red algae’.