The main reason is that they contain chloroplasts and produce food through photosynthesis. However, they lack many other structures of true plants. For example, algae do not have roots, stems, or leaves.
- Why is cyanobacteria not classified as a plant?
- Why are cyanobacteria not classified as algae?
- Why are green algae now classified as members of the plant kingdom?
Why is cyanobacteria not classified as a plant?
Plants are eukaryotes, meaning they are multicellular and have membrane-bound organelles; this includes a nucleus that holds their DNA. Cyanobacteria are prokaryotes, meaning they are single-celled and do not have a nucleus (Staley et al., 2007). ... Plant cells with visible chloroplasts (green, circular structures).
Why are cyanobacteria not classified as algae?
Cyanobacteria are sometimes considered algae, but they are actually bacteria (prokaryotic), where the term “algae” is now reserved for eukaryotic organisms. They also derive their energy through photosynthesis, but lack a nucleus or membrane bound organelles, like chloroplasts.
Why are green algae now classified as members of the plant kingdom?
The green algae are often classified in the Kingdom Plantae, based on two characteristics shared with higher plants: 1) green algae use chlorophyll a and b in photosynthesis; 2) the chloroplasts of green algae are enclosed in a double membrane.