Question

An alga which can be employed as food for human beings is

• A. Ulothrix
• B. Chlorella
• C. Goniodoma
  
• D. Polysiphonia

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

Chlorella

Chlorella is a genus of single-cell green algae belonging to the phylum Chlorophyta. It is spherical in shape, about 2 to 10 m in diameter, and is without flagella. Chlorella contains the green photosynthetic pigments chlorophyll a and b in its chloroplast. Through photosynthesis, it multiplies rapidly, requiring only carbon dioxide, water, sunlight, and a small amount of minerals to reproduce. It is a potential food source because it is high in protein and other essential nutrients; when dried, it is about 45% protein, 20% fat, 20% carbohydrate, 5% fibre, and 10% minerals and vitamins. It is also abundant in calories and vitamins.

Thus, the correct answer is option B.