Freshwater Algae

Synopsis

This is the second edition of Freshwater Algae; the popular guide to temperate freshwater algae. This book uniquely combines practical information on sampling and experimental techniques with an explanation of basic algal taxonomy plus a key to identify the more frequently-occurring organisms.  Fully revised,  it describes major bioindicator species in relation to key environmental parameters and their implications for aquatic management.

This second edition includes:

the same clear writing style as the first edition to provide an easily accessible source of information on algae within standing and flowing waters, and the problems they may cause

the identification of 250 algae using a key based on readily observable morphological features that can be readily observed under a conventional light microscope

up-to-date information on the molecular determination of taxonomic status, analytical microtechniques and the potential role of computer analysis in algal biology

upgrades to numerous line drawings to include more detail and extra species information, full colour photographs of live algae - including many new images from the USA and China

Bridging the gap between simple identification texts and highly specialised research volumes, this book is
used both as a comprehensive introduction to the subject and as a laboratory manual. The new edition will be invaluable to aquatic biologists for algal identification, and for all practitioners and researchers working within aquatic microbiology in industry and academia.

Summary

Chapter 1: Introduction

* Defines freshwater algae and their importance in aquatic ecosystems
* Discusses their roles in primary production, oxygen production, and nutrient cycling
* Provides an overview of their diversity and global distribution
Real Example: The Amazon River, which contains a rich diversity of algae, including species such as *Chlorella* and *Scenedesmus*, that support a wide range of aquatic organisms.

Chapter 2: Taxonomy and Phylogeny

* Classifies algae into different phyla and classes based on their cellular structure, pigments, and reproductive characteristics
* Discusses the use of molecular techniques to infer their evolutionary relationships
* Describes the key features of major algal groups, such as Chlorophyta, Cyanobacteria, and Bacillariophyta
Real Example: The green alga *Chlamydomonas* is characterized by its motile flagella and contains chloroplasts with chlorophyll a and b. It is a member of the phylum Chlorophyta.

Chapter 3: Cell Structure and Function

* Explores the internal structure and functions of algal cells
* Describes the role of organelles such as chloroplasts, mitochondria, and nuclei
* Discusses the processes of photosynthesis, respiration, and nutrient uptake
Real Example: The diatom *Cyclotella* has a complex silicified cell wall and contains multiple chloroplasts, enabling it to efficiently capture light for photosynthesis.

Chapter 4: Growth and Reproduction

* Examines the factors affecting algal growth, including light, nutrients, temperature, and pH
* Describes the different modes of reproduction, including asexual (binary fission, fragmentation) and sexual (conjugation, zygote formation)
Real Example: The blue-green alga *Anabaena* exhibits heterocysts, specialized cells that fix atmospheric nitrogen, allowing it to thrive in nutrient-poor conditions.

Chapter 5: Ecology and Distribution

* Discusses the distribution of algae in freshwater habitats, including lakes, rivers, and wetlands
* Describes the environmental factors that influence algal community composition and abundance
* Examines the role of algae in food webs and nutrient cycling
Real Example: The oligotrophic Lake Tahoe is characterized by low algal biomass due to its cold, deep, and nutrient-poor waters.

Chapter 6: Environmental Impacts

* Reviews the positive and negative impacts of algae on human activities
* Discusses issues related to algal blooms, eutrophication, and toxin production
* Explores the use of algae in biofuels, wastewater treatment, and food supplements
Real Example: The toxic cyanobacteria *Microcystis* can form harmful blooms in eutrophic lakes, affecting drinking water quality and aquatic life.

Chapter 7: Monitoring and Management

* Describes methods for monitoring algal abundance, diversity, and impacts
* Discusses management strategies for controlling algal blooms, improving water quality, and conserving algal habitats
Real Example: The use of advanced monitoring techniques, such as satellite imagery and DNA barcoding, allows for real-time detection and identification of harmful algal species.