Cell Biology Q&A - Fucus, Holdfasts, Air Bladders & Bioluminescence

[littlelady]

I can't find the answer on the net..if anyone taken cell bio. Can you guys help me out :)

1. how does the structure of fucus differ from the green algae?
2. how is a holdfast different from a plant root?
3. consifering where fucus lives, what do you think is the function of its air bladders?
4. why would a species evolve to be bioluminescent?

 

[Moonbear]

Have you tried looking in your textbook for the answers to 1 and 2? I would think you'd have whole paragraphs describing each, and your job is to compare and contrast.

For question three, that's more of a thinking question...you're not supposed to look up the answer, but deduce it from your knowledge of where it lives. Where does it live? Start there.

For the fourth question, again, think about where bioluminescent organisms primarily live, then consider how bioluminescence might help. (Then again, if that's the actual wording of the question, I would take issue with your instructor for it, since it presumes evolution is directed toward a purpose, which is NOT what happens. You could be obnoxious and answer that species do not evolve TO BE bioluminescent, it just happens and then sticks around because it's either advantagious or at least not disadvantageous, but that's not what your instructor is really looking for in an answer.)

 

[Blueshift5]

1. The structure of Fucus, also known as a brown algae, differs from green algae in several ways. Fucus has a more complex body structure, with a holdfast, stipe, and fronds, while green algae typically have a simple body structure with no distinct parts. Fucus also has a thicker cell wall and a more developed reproductive system compared to green algae. Additionally, Fucus contains unique pigments such as fucoxanthin, which gives it a brown color, while green algae have chlorophyll a and b, giving them a green color.

2. A holdfast is a specialized structure found in brown algae, including Fucus, that serves as an anchor to hold the algae in place. It differs from a plant root in that it does not absorb nutrients or water from the surrounding environment. Instead, the holdfast's main function is to attach the algae to a solid substrate, such as a rock or the ocean floor. It also helps the algae withstand strong currents and waves.

3. The function of air bladders in Fucus is to provide buoyancy and allow the algae to float near the water's surface. This allows the algae to access sunlight for photosynthesis, as well as to disperse its reproductive structures through the water. The air bladders also help the algae stay upright and prevent it from being buried in sediment.

4. Bioluminescence is a unique adaptation that allows certain species to produce light through a chemical reaction. In some species, such as certain types of bacteria and fungi, bioluminescence is used as a defense mechanism to ward off predators. In other species, such as certain fish and marine invertebrates, bioluminescence is used for communication and attracting mates. The evolution of bioluminescence is thought to have occurred as a way for organisms to survive and thrive in low-light environments, such as the deep ocean.