Tumbuhanalga

Tumbuhanalga is the Indonesian term commonly used to refer to algae, a broad and diverse group of photosynthetic organisms that are not restricted to land plants. The concept encompasses a range of organisms from simple, single-celled microalgae to large, multicellular seaweeds. Algae are found in a variety of aquatic environments, including oceans, rivers, lakes, and moist terrestrial surfaces.

Taxonomically, algae are distributed across several groups. True algae (eukaryotic algae) include green algae (Chlorophyta), red algae (Rhodophyta), and brown algae (Phaeophyceae), which together form a major portion of marine and freshwater primary production. Cyanobacteria, often called blue-green algae, are bacteria that perform photosynthesis and contribute to aquatic productivity as well. Macroalgae, such as kelp, are large, multicellular seaweeds, while microalgae are typically microscopic and include species used in industry and research.

Biology and ecology: algae utilize various pigments to capture light for photosynthesis and produce oxygen. They reproduce through a variety of methods, including fragmentation, spores, and alternating life cycles in some groups. Ecologically, algae form the base of many aquatic food webs and contribute significantly to global carbon and nutrient cycles. Some species can form blooms, which may affect water quality and ecosystem health and, in certain cases, produce toxins.

Human uses and impact: algae are sources of food for humans (for example, seaweeds and microalgae-based products), ingredients for industry (agar, carrageenan, alginates), and subjects of biotechnology research. They are also studied for biofuel potential and environmental applications such as wastewater treatment. Sustainability challenges include nutrient pollution and climate-related changes that affect algal communities.