Chromalveolata

Chromalveolata is a eukaryotic supergroup proposed by Thomas Cavalier-Smith in 1981. The Chromalveolata include all organisms that have chloroplasts with a characteristic form of chlorophyll, called chlorophyll c. This group includes a wide variety of different types of organisms, including algae, protozoa, and other microscopic organisms.

History

The concept of Chromalveolata was first proposed by Thomas Cavalier-Smith in 1981. He suggested that all eukaryotes with chloroplasts containing chlorophyll c are closely related and should be grouped together. This idea was based on the observation that these organisms share a common ancestor, which was a photosynthetic eukaryote that acquired its chloroplasts through a process called endosymbiosis.

Characteristics

Chromalveolates are characterized by the presence of chloroplasts that contain chlorophyll c. This type of chlorophyll is not found in any other group of organisms. In addition to chlorophyll c, chromalveolates also contain other types of pigments, which give them a wide range of colors.

Classification

The Chromalveolata are divided into four major groups: the Alveolata, the Stramenopiles, the Cryptophyta, and the Haptophyta. Each of these groups includes a wide variety of different types of organisms, ranging from single-celled protozoa to multicellular algae.

Controversy

The concept of Chromalveolata has been controversial. Some scientists argue that the evidence for a common ancestor is not strong enough, and that the Chromalveolata should not be considered a separate group. Others argue that the Chromalveolata are a valid group, but that they should be divided into several smaller groups.

See also

• Eukaryote
• Endosymbiosis
• Alveolata
• Stramenopiles
• Cryptophyta
• Haptophyta

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