Which of the following statements does not characterize the red algae -

Options

A. Floridean starch (reserve food)
B. Both spores and gametes are nonmotile
C. Post fertilization development is like other algae
D. Red algae can vary their ratio of photosynthetic pigments depending upon the light conditions

Answer

To determine which statement does not characterize red algae, we need to analyze each option provided in the question. Here’s a step-by-step solution:

### Step 1: Understand the Characteristics of Red Algae
Red algae, scientifically known as Rhodophyceae, have specific characteristics that differentiate them from other types of algae. Key features include:
- Presence of chlorophyll A and D.
- The pigment phycoerythrin, which gives them their red color.
- Stored food in the form of fluoridine starch.
- Non-motile spores and gametes (absence of flagella).
- Oogamous type of sexual reproduction.

### Step 2: Analyze Each Statement
1. **Stored food is fluoridine starch**: This is true for red algae.
2. **Both spores and gametes are non-motile**: This is also true, as red algae do not have flagella.
3. **Post-fertilization development is like other algae**: This is false. Red algae have a unique post-fertilization development process that is more complex than that of green or brown algae.
4. **Red algae can vary their ratio of photosynthetic pigments depending upon light conditions**: This is true, as red algae can adapt to different light environments.

### Step 3: Identify the Incorrect Statement
From the analysis, the statement that does not characterize red algae is:
- **Post-fertilization development is like other algae** (This is the incorrect statement).

### Conclusion
The statement that does not characterize red algae is the one regarding post-fertilization development being similar to that of other algae.

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