There are over 7,000 described species of green algae on planet earth and scientists are expecting to find even more species as they continue to investigate the mesmerizing world of algae. Many algae species live in environments that are difficult to explore, such as high mountains and malaria infested swamps and it is therefore not unrealistic to assume that we still have a lot to learn about this fascinating life form.
If you want to research green algae, you can expect to find the greatest number of species in freshwater but green algae exists in marine waters as well. There are also species that have adapted to a life in brackish water. Green algae don’t need a large body of water to thrive; it can for instance show up on damp rocks and other moist surfaces. Some species have flagella, tiny “tails” that they can use to move around.
A vast majority of the species we know of has a chloroplast filled with chlorophyll b and uses its chlorophyll b to derive energy from the sun. Chlorophyll b is the same type of chlorophyll found in the higher plants, e.g. trees. In addition to the pigment chlorophyll b, green algae are filled with carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin. Some species also contain the pigment siphonoxanthin.
