19 Green Algae IV

Chlorophyceans

Chlorophyceans are a diverse assemblage of mostly freshwater or terrestrial green algae. Some genera that produce decay-resistant hydrocarbon polymers known as algaenans are biogeochemically important as the sources of certain fossil carbon deposits. Many chlorophyceans are ecologically significant as primary producers in aquatic or terrestrial crust ecosystems. Some offer unique insights into evolutionary processes, one example being the origin and function of altruism genes. The genus Chlamydomonas is valued as a genetic system for the molecular analysis of flagella and photosynthesis and also offers industrial potential as a source of renewable hydrogen fuel. This chapter surveys the relationships, general structural and reproductive characteristics, and diversity of the chlorophyceans.