What Are the Taxonomic Classifications of Algae?

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Algae are often categorized as a non-scientific group term rather than a strict taxonomic classification, leading to confusion about their classification within biological kingdoms. While traditional algae are commonly associated with the plant kingdom, they actually lack a true plant body and can vary significantly in form and size. For instance, red algae can grow large and exhibit plant-like characteristics, while single-celled green algae, such as Chlorella, can thrive in diverse environments. Blue-green algae, despite their name, are classified under the kingdom Monera due to their prokaryotic nature. The terminology surrounding algae reflects historical language usage rather than precise scientific taxonomy, making it essential to understand these distinctions for accurate classification.
Priyadarshini
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Does algae fall under the plant kingdom or thr protista kingdom? Why does blue-green algae fall under thr kingdom monera if it is a kind of algae?
Thanks for any help in advance!
 
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They are called algae because it is easy to cubbyhole something that way. People feel better when they can put a name to something, that way they feel like they know about it.

Algae grow mostly underwater and do not have a plant body. Red algae grow to be huge (15m) plant-like organisms with modifications that look like stems and leaves. Single celled "green algae" like Chlorella can grow in a mat on the side of a tree.

What this tells you: "algae" is a common non-scientific group term, like ornamental shrub or chaparral. It has little to do with taxonomy and everything to do with the history of language. Putting red or or green or blue-green in front of the word algae is slightly better, but still seldom scientific.
If you read the link it discusses things in detail which is not feasible here on PF.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Algae
 
jim mcnamara said:
They are called algae because it is easy to cubbyhole something that way. People feel better when they can put a name to something, that way they feel like they know about it.

Algae grow mostly underwater and do not have a plant body. Red algae grow to be huge (15m) plant-like organisms with modifications that look like stems and leaves. Single celled "green algae" like Chlorella can grow in a mat on the side of a tree.

What this tells you: "algae" is a common non-scientific group term, like ornamental shrub or chaparral. It has little to do with taxonomy and everything to do with the history of language. Putting red or or green or blue-green in front of the word algae is slightly better, but still seldom scientific.
If you read the link it discusses things in detail which is not feasible here on PF.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Algae
Thank you!
 
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