Some algae eat their food alive. #shorts #science #SciShow

In a 2021 study, researchers observed that five types of algae consumed live bacteria, showcasing their mixotrophic nature, which allows them to photosynthesize or consume other organisms. Surprisingly, algae showed a strong preference for live bacteria, likely due to the nutrients they provide, enhancing growth. However, when presented with dead bacteria, algae rejected them, possibly due to difficulty in recognizing deteriorated bacteria.

What characteristic allows algae to consume bacteria?

• They are chemotrophs.

• They are mixotrophs.

• They are autotrophs.

• They are heterotrophs.

Why might algae have a strong appetite for bacteria?

• Bacteria help them photosynthesize.

• Bacteria are their only food source.

• Bacteria are easy to digest.

• Bacteria provide them with nutrients.

What happens to algae when they consume bacteria?

• They produce less oxygen.

• They become less active.

• They grow better.

• They lose their ability to photosynthesize.

How do algae react to dead bacteria?

• They consume them eagerly.

• They store them for later.

• They ignore them.

• They use them for photosynthesis.

What is the hypothesized reason algae avoid dead bacteria?

• Dead bacteria are toxic.

• Dead bacteria are too large.

• Algae cannot recognize deteriorated bacteria.

• Dead bacteria lack flavor.