Which species of green algae, commonly known as stonewort, is often mistaken for a plant?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
The correct answer is option 3 i.e. Chara.
The species of green algae commonly known as stonewort is Chara.
Chara is a genus of green algae belonging to the class Charophyceae, which is a group considered to be the closest living relatives to land plants. This evolutionary proximity explains why Chara is often mistaken for a plant. It exhibits a complex, macroscopic structure with a central axis, whorls of branches, and rhizoids that anchor it to the substrate, giving it a superficial resemblance to submerged vascular plants like horsetails or coontail. The name 'stonewort' comes from its tendency to become encrusted with calcium carbonate deposits, which makes it feel gritty or 'stony.' Despite its plant-like appearance, it lacks true roots, stems, leaves, and a vascular system, which are defining characteristics of plants.