chara

Chara may refer to several distinct topics, including a genus of green algae, a character connected with a popular video game, a Japanese singer-songwriter, and a surname. The uses are diverse and unrelated beyond the shared spelling.

In biology, Chara is a genus of charophyte green algae, commonly called stoneworts. They inhabit freshwater environments and are characterized by rigid, segmented stems with whorled branches. Charophytes, including Chara species, are of particular interest because they are among the closest living relatives to land plants and are frequently used in ecological studies and pond experiments.

In popular culture, Chara is associated with the backstory of Undertale, a role-playing game released in 2015. The game introduces a human child who falls into the Underground, and in fan discussions the child is commonly referred to as Chara. Interpretations of this character’s role and identity vary and are a frequent topic of analysis.

Chara is also the stage name of a Japanese singer-songwriter who has released multiple albums since the 1990s. The artist is known for a distinctive vocal style and collaboration across Japanese pop music.

The surname Chára (often written with a diacritic) is of Czech origin. Notable individuals include Zdeno Chára, a Czech professional ice hockey defenceman who has played in the National Hockey League and served as captain of the Boston Bruins.