Life Forms in the Algae

Abstract
A review of life-form schemes in the algae is given and a new one is proposed because no previous scheme has had wide acceptance. The new scheme is intended to be a reflection of habitat requirements or response and to be applicable to both marine and freshwater algae. Biological spectra are constructed for saltmarshes, rocky coasts (temperate and tropical) and for fresh waters. A further comparison is made of different belts on saltmarsh and rocky shores. A final comparison is made of biological spectra ranging from the Arctic to the tropics and from the Atlantic to the Pacific Oceans.