|
Division Chrysophyta (diatoms, golden-brown algae, yellow-green algae) |
|
This biological division contains the diatoms, golden-brown algae,
and yellow-green algae. Scientists estimate that there are about 12,000
species in this division. These organisms are all single-celled and are
mainly found in marine environments. They conduct photosynthesis and contain
chlorophylls a and c; diatoms and golden-brown algae also contain the
acessory pigment fucoxanthin. They store their food as large droplets
of oil or in the form of the carbohydrate leucosin. These organisms usually
reproduce by cell division. |