Affiliation:
1. University of Allahabad, India
2. Forest Research Institute, India
3. Aquaculture Foundation of India, India
Abstract
Algae are a fascinatingly diverse group of photosynthetic organisms existing in diverse environments (ranging from oceans, rivers, lakes, ponds, and brackish waters). Comprising the base of the aquatic food ecosystem, algae have pivotal ecological functions as oxygen producers. Ranging in size from unicellular microalgae to the giant kelp, they have a wide range of (food, pharmaceutical, and industrial) applications. Physiology of algae comprises the study of algal function and behaviour. It encompasses all the dynamic processes of growth, metabolism, reproduction, defence, communication of algae (that account for algae being alive), and the processes underlying large biogeographical patterns of algae. Several biotic and abiotic environmental variables such as nutrients, light, temperature stress, salinity stress, desiccation, global warming, and ocean acidification affect algal growth and occurrence. This chapter provides a rudimentary insight regarding the growth, reproduction, and biochemistry of algae under varying environmental conditions.