n.
Genus of single-celled green algae considered to be primitive life-forms of evolutionary significance.
The cell has a spherical cellulose membrane , an eyespot, and a cup-shaped, pigment-containing chloroplast . Though capable of photosynthesis , Chlamydomonas may also absorb nutrients through the cell surface. It is found in soil, ponds, and ditches polluted by manure. It may colour water green. A red-pigmented species turns melting snow red.