Green tuft algae
Cladophora glomerata
Cladophora glomerata is a globally distributed, filamentous green alga found in freshwater and brackish environments. It forms dense, tuft-like colonies that are typically anchored to rocks, wood, or other submerged substrates. The alga is known for its high adaptability to varying flow velocities and light conditions. Under eutrophic conditions, it can reach massive proportions, impacting the ecological balance of the water body.
Details
Oxygen production
High during daylight; can lead to oxygen depletion at night.
Habitat function
Important spawning ground and hiding place for juvenile fish and invertebrates.
Nutrient uptake
Very efficient uptake of nitrogen and phosphorus.
Food source for
Snails, small crustaceans, and herbivorous fish.
Human use
Occasionally used as a bioindicator or in research for biofuel production.
Ecology
Ecological role
Primary producer; provides habitat for periphyton and food for various herbivores.
Natural predators
Herbivorous fish, water snails, and various insect larvae.
Competitor species
Other filamentous algae such as Vaucheria or Spirogyra, as well as planktonic algae.
Ecosystem service
Oxygen enrichment of water; nutrient fixation; erosion protection on the water bed.
Threats
Pollution by herbicides; extreme turbidity due to sediment input.
Scientific profile
Profile
Reproduction
Isomorphic alternation of generations; asexual reproduction via quadriflagellate zoospores, sexual reproduction via biflagellate isogametes; also vegetative dispersal through fragmentation.
Protection & threats
Main threats
No immediate threat; the species is often considered a beneficiary of anthropogenic pressures due to its tolerance to eutrophication.