Question

Floridean starch is found in
A. Chlorophyceae
B. Rhodophyceae
C. Myxophyceae
D. Cyanophages

Answer 1

Floridean starch is a type of starch molecule that has a long branched chain as compared to the amylopectin. It is a type of storage glucan. It is stored as grains outside the chloroplast in red algae and glaucophytes.

Complete answer:
The algae are classified into three groups – Phaeophyceae, Chlorophyceae, and Rhodophyceae. Algae are simple, thalloid autotrophic organisms. They are found in freshwater as well as the marine water. They are also the chlorophyll-bearing organisms.

Let us compare the main algae and their important characteristics:

CLASSES	COMMON NAME	MAJOR PIGMENTS	NUMBER OF FLAGELLAR/POSITION OF INSERTIONS	STORED FOOD	CELL WALL	HABITAT
Phaeophyceae	Brown algae	Fucoxanthin and chlorophyll a and c	2, unequal lateral	Mannitol, laminarin	Cellulose and algin	Fresh water (rare), salt water and brackish water
Chlorophyceae	Green algae	Chlorophyll a and b	2-8, equal apical	Starch	Cellulose	Fresh water, salt water and brackish water
Rhodophyceae	Red algae	Phycoerythrin, Chlorophyll a and d	absent	Floridean starch	Cellulose, pectin and sulphate esters	Fresh water (few), salt water (mostly) and brackish water

Hence, the correct answer is option (B).

Note: Option C and D both are synonyms belonging to the family blue-green algae. The cell wall formed from the pectin compound and cellulose surrounded by the gelatinous sheath. The pigments present are carotenoids, xanthophylls, chlorophyll a and b and phycocyanin. The blue-green colour is due to the presence of the phycocyanin pigment. The proteineous body and oil drop called cyanophycean granules are the stored food found in it.