Red algae Introduction,
About..
Oldest group of eukaryotic algae.it has largest phyta of algae containing 7000 recognized species. majority of red algae species are multicellular, macroscopic marine algae. also have small percentage of microscopic species. about 5% of red algae are in fresh water. most from them are found in warmer areas. red algae are the deepest living algae in the sea.
Eukaryotic cells without flagella and centrioles. have chloroplasts that lack endoplasmic reticulum. have phycobilins as accessory pigments.it cause to red color of algae. they store Floridian starch. cell wall is mainly made from cellulose, carrageenan, xylan and agar.
Reproduction..
Most of the red algae are reproduce sexually. some are reproduce asexually. from spores or vegetation. (cell division, propagules)
Importance..
They have high environmental importance. Some species are secrete calcium carbonate.it is important to building coral reefs. also it has high economic importance. some red algae species are part of tradition in some European and Asian countries. Red algae are used to produce agar, carrageenan, food additives and etc. red algae eat as salads, soup, supplementary foods and many other ways. red algae are important source of nutritional, functional, food ingredients and pharmaceutical substance. and it rich of antioxidants, protein, minerals, trace elements, vitamins and essential fatty acids.
Ex.
Gracillaria sp.
Gelidium sp.
The Algae World 