Haptophyte facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Haptophytes |
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| Coccolithophore (Coccolithus pelagicus) | |
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Haptophyta
Hibberd 1976
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Class Pavlovophyceae |
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Haptophytes are a group of tiny, single-celled algae that live mostly in the ocean. They are also known as Prymnesiophyta. Most haptophytes can make their own food using sunlight, just like plants do. This process is called photosynthesis. Because they are so small and float in the water, they are a type of phytoplankton. Phytoplankton are a very important part of the ocean's food web.
These tiny cells usually have two flagella. Flagella are like small, whip-like tails that help them move around in the water. Haptophytes also have a special part called a haptonema. This haptonema looks a bit like a third flagellum. However, it works differently and helps the haptophyte attach to surfaces or catch food. The name "haptonema" comes from ancient Greek words meaning "touch" and "thread."
Discovering Haptophyte Groups
Scientists study haptophytes to understand how they are related to each other. They use different types of clues to figure this out. These clues include looking at their DNA (molecular evidence). They also study their shapes and structures (morphological evidence).
Based on these clues, haptophytes are divided into five main groups, called orders. Two important orders are the Isochrysidales and Coccolithales. These groups include the famous coccolithophores. Coccolithophores are special because they create tiny plates made of chalk. These plates cover their bodies like armor.
Other types of haptophytes can sometimes cause large growths in the ocean. These growths are known as algal blooms. Some of these blooms can be harmful to other ocean life. This is because they can produce natural substances that are not good for fish or other animals.
See also
In Spanish: Haptophyta para niños
