Viherlevät

Viherlevät, scientifically known as Chlorophyta, are a large phylum of green algae. They are found in a wide variety of habitats, including freshwater, marine environments, and even on land in moist locations like soil or tree bark. Viherlevät are characterized by their green color, which is due to the presence of chlorophyll a and b, the same pigments found in terrestrial plants. This allows them to perform photosynthesis, converting light energy into chemical energy.

The diversity within viherlevät is immense, ranging from single-celled organisms like Chlamydomonas to complex multicellular forms such as Ulva, commonly known as sea lettuce. Their life cycles can also be varied, involving both sexual and asexual reproduction. Viherlevät play a crucial role in aquatic ecosystems, serving as a primary food source for many organisms and contributing significantly to oxygen production through photosynthesis. They are also important in scientific research, particularly in studies related to photosynthesis, cell biology, and the evolution of plants. Some species are also cultivated for commercial purposes, including as food supplements and for biofuels.