Question

Algae are divided into three main classes. What are the three classes? Differentiate them on the basis of photosynthetic pigment and food.

Answer 1

Algae are divided into three classes. The presence or absence of pigments is the main basis of the classification of algae. Following are three classes of algae:-

1. Chlorophyceae: Chlorophyll a and b are present in them and impart a green color. Chlorophyceae are also called ‘green algae’.

2. Phaeophyceae: Chlorophyll a and c and fucoxanthin are present. Fucoxanthin imparts brown color. Phaeophyceae are also called ‘brown algae’.

3. Rhodophyceae: Chlorophyll a and d and phycoerythrin are present. Phycoerythrin imparts red color. Rhodophyceae are also called ‘red algae’.