RHODOPHYTA

• Multicellular eukaryotic algae that are mostly found in tropical marine locations
• Lack flagella (non-motile) and centrioles
• Produce food by photosynthesis (chlorophyl a and c, and carotenoid (orange color)
• Reproduce asexually by monospores carried by water currents until germination
• Cell walls are made up of cellulose and different types of carbohydrates
• Can grow in solid surfaces of tropical reefs or attaches to other algae
• Produces polysaccharides:

  AGAR – used as food thickener and culture medium

  CARRAGENAN – food additive used to stabilize chocolate milk, cosmetics

  and paints; provide thick creamy texture to ice creams and other soft

  processed food