Desmids are unicellular green algae found in freshwater. They are placed under chrysophytes.
Chrysophytes are a group of algae found in lakes and ponds. They are referred to as golden-brown algae due to their color.
Characteristics:
Desmids are placed in a group of chrysophytes belonging to Kingdom Protista known as golden-brown algae or golden algae.
They are free-floating or bottom dwellers. They float freely and remain suspended on the surface of the water by mucilage secretion and the presence of light.
They release mucilage through the cell wall and with the help of mucilage they, show gliding movement.