Algae is the term commonly used to describe a large collection of organisms (including both prokaryotes and eukaryotes) that are capable of photosynthesis. These organisms are present in a variety of habitats, including salt water freshwater, deserts, boiling water, snow, etc. These range from very small organisms (single-celled organisms) to very large organisms, such as Giant Kelp (which can be as large as 50 meters).
There are both pros and cons of algae. Because of their ability to carry out photosynthesis, they are the primary producers and provide food and oxygen for other life forms. They are also being studied for generating bio-fuels. Algae are also known to cause algal blooms in surface water bodies, which is detrimental to other life forms in the water and also results in coloration of the water body.
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