Algae

A large specimen of the brown alga Saccharina latissima

What are algae?

‘Algae’ is an artificial concept for a diverse assemblage that spans 4 of the 5 supergroups of eukaryotes and 1 group of prokaryotes in the tree of life.

Although the precise evolutionary relationships of these groups are still open to debate, the name 'algae' is still used as a term of convenience.

Algae range from single cells through to complex multicellular forms several metres in length.

Groups

Learn more about the morphology and habitats of some of the major algae groups.
Algal research

The Botany Department’s algal-related research programme includes projects to map and record seaweed biodiversity in the North Atlantic and detailed studies of red algae.
Algal collections

Find out about the Botany Department's collections of algae, which are among the largest in the world and a rich source of important historical material.