AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -However, these algae are not true plants. Algae lack the vein-like vascular system found in most plants. Algae are considered the most important photosynthetic organisms on Earth. Without algae, life in the ocean would be very different than it is.

Detailed explanation-2: -They play a vital role in aquatic ecosystems by forming the energy base of the food web for all aquatic organisms. As autotrophic organisms, algae convert water and carbon dioxide to sugar through the process of photosynthesis.

Detailed explanation-3: -The structures between what are commonly known as aquatic plants and algae differ. Plants, unlike algae, have roots, stems, leaves, and a vascular system. These structures allow plants to take up nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, from the soil.

Detailed explanation-4: -Marine plants and algae provide food and shelter to fish and other marine life, but they are not just important to aquatic ecosystems; they provide about 70 – 80 percent of the oxygen on Earth, making them extremely important in our everyday lives as well!