Introduction to the Algae: Occurrence, Relationships, Nutrition, Definition, General Features

When most people ask what algae are, we know that they often want the short
answer, so we reply "the slimy green stuff in the lake." Or, if the
question is posed near the seashore, "seaweed" forms an acceptable answer.
But such terse replies will not satisfy demanding students, who
really want to know about the diversity of possible algal habitats,
and how they can distinguish algae from other organisms. Chapter 1 aims
to fill this need by providing a brief survey of the various environments
where algae can be found; defining algae in terms of phylogenetic position,
nutritional characteristics, and ecological function; and supplying
summaries of nine major groups. Diagrams of the major types of growth forms,
reproductive modes, and life history types, as well as a table listing
photosyntheic pigments, storage products, and cell coverings found
among algae are located here too.