Snow_algae
Snow algae
Group of alpine and polar freshwater algae
Snow algae are a group of freshwater micro-algae which grow in the alpine and polar regions of the earth.[1] Snow algae has been found on every continent, but still have a restricted range of temperature to flourish. The typical restricted range for most species is between 0°C-10°C, with their temperatures for optimal growth between 0°C-5°C.[2] These algae have been observed to come in a variety of colors associated with both the individual species, stage of life or topography/geography.[3][4] A typical snow algae in the alps and polar regions is Chlamydomonas nivalis. This variation is associated with both albedo differences of the snowy habitat and the presence of micro-invertebrates. Snow algae play a critical role in the trophic organization as primary producers who in turn are consumed primarily by tardigrades and rotifers.[5] Snow algae have also been found to travel great distances being carried by winds.[6]