Question

Select the correct match of algal class and its characteristic flagellation.
A. Chlorophyceae – 2-8 equal, apical
B. Phaeophyceae – 2, unequal, lateral
C. Rhodophyceae – Absent
D. All of these

Answer 1

Hint: Algae are a group of eukaryotic unicellular or multicellular organisms. These are autotrophic as they perform photosynthesis. Unicellular Chlorella and multicellular giant kelps are all algae. Most of the unicellular algae are flagellated. A flagellum is like a thread appendage protruding from the cell body.

Step by step answer:Alga forms a large group of unicellular photosynthetic organisms. Algae consist of both unicellular and multicellular organisms ranging from Chlorella to giant kelp forests in marine environments. Most of the unicellular algae are known to have a whip-like or thread-like appendage that originates from the cell body and helps in movement. This is called flagella. The flagellum mostly originates from the base of the outer cell membrane and is slightly thicker at the base than at the tip. Despite the major role in locomotion, the flagellum also assists in searching for food, safety from predators, mating, etc. The Chlorophyceae are a group of algae having a rigid outer cell wall of cellulose and a pectin wall outer to cellulose. These algae consist of chlorophyll pigment that makes them appear green in color and thus they belong to the class of green algae. Some of these have clockwise oriented flagella. The flagella are equal in size and are apically present on the base of the cell wall. Also, the number of flagella ranges from 2 to 8. Phaeophyceae are commonly known as brown algae and are multicellular. They contain fucoxanthin pigment responsible for their brownish-green color. They reproduce by flagellated spores. These spores have 2 unequal flagella oriented in a lateral manner.
Rhodophyceae are a large group of eukaryotic algae that are commonly known as red algae. These are found majorly in marine habitats. They are characterized by their non-flagellated cells that lack centrioles.
Thus, from the above discussion, we can conclude that all of the given options correctly represent the type of algae with its characteristic flagellation.

So, the correct answer is option D.

Note: The algae are a large group of organisms with so many groups having their own characteristic properties. Algae are very beneficial to human beings. The powder product called agar that is extracted from red algae is used in various biotechnological and molecular experiments.