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algae
[ al-jee ]
plural noun
- Microbiology. any of numerous groups of chlorophyll-containing, mainly aquatic, eukaryotic organisms ranging from microscopic single-celled forms to multicellular forms 100 feet (30 meters) or more long, distinguished from plants by the absence of true roots, stems, and leaves and by a lack of nonreproductive cells in the reproductive structures: classified into the six phyla Euglenophyta, Crysophyta, Pyrrophyta, Chlorophyta, Phaeophyta, and Rhodophyta.
algae
/ ˈældʒiː; ˈælɡəl /
plural noun
- unicellular or multicellular organisms formerly classified as plants, occurring in fresh or salt water or moist ground, that have chlorophyll and other pigments but lack true stems, roots, and leaves. Algae, which are now regarded as protoctists, include the seaweeds, diatoms, and spirogyra
algae
- Primitive organisms that contain chlorophyll but do not have structures, such as xylem and phloem , to transport fluids . Algae sometimes contain only a single cell , and nowadays they are not considered members of the plant kingdom .
Notes
Derived Forms
- algal, adjective
Other Words From
- al·gal [al, -g, uh, l], adjective
Word History and Origins
Origin of algae1
Word History and Origins
Origin of algae1
Compare Meanings
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Example Sentences
Another sign of the Delta’s ecological deterioration in recent years has been worsening toxic algae blooms.
Ash from forest fires can sometimes boost the growth of phytoplankton, the microscopic algae at the base of the marine food web, thanks to the infusion of nutrients from burned plants.
She and a graduate student feed the algae different nutrients to influence its protein content.
Raw water can also contain algae that release toxins causing abdominal issues and damage to the brain and nervous system.
“It is a matter of protecting water supplies and economies. Rivers must have enough water to sustain businesses, prevent toxic algae blooms, and ensure clean water for downstream communities,” Talley said.
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