Question

Write a detail note on a unicellular algae that you have studied.

Answer 1

Chlamydomonas:
Chlamydomonas is a simple, unicellular, motile fresh water algae.

• They are oval, spherical or pyriform in shape.
• The pyriform (pear shape) is a common one found in ponds, ditches and water tanks.
• They have a narrow anterior end and a broad posterior end.
• The cell is surrounded by a thin and firm cell wall made of cellulose.
• The cytoplasm is seen in between the cell membrane and the chloroplast. The cell contains large dark nucleus lying inside the cavity of the cup shaped chloroplast.
• The anterior part of the cell bears two flagella which helps in locomotion.
• Two contractile vacuoles are seen at the base of each flagellum. The anterior side of the chloroplast contains a tiny red coloured eyespot.
• Chlamydomonas exhibits sexual and asexual modes of reproduction.