Euglena can be both heterotroph and autotrophs but algae can be only autotroph.
Euglena act like herotroph when sunlight is not available.
Chat with our AI personalities
One of the most important structural differences between algae and euglena is that euglena possesses a flagellum, which allows it to move independently, while most algae lack this structure and rely on water currents for movement. Additionally, euglena have a distinct eye spot called a stigma, which helps them detect light, whereas this feature is not present in most algae.
The common name of Euglena gracilis is "euglena."
Euglena is a common protist that possesses an eyespot, also known as a stigma. This eyespot allows Euglena to detect light and move towards it, aiding in its photosynthetic process.
Scientists would classify organisms between a sea spider and a euglena based on their shared characteristics and evolutionary relationships. Sea spiders are classified as arthropods (specifically pycnogonids), while euglenas are classified as protists. These organisms would occupy different phyla within the Tree of Life.
Because the Euglena's pellicle is flexible, this organism can change its shape and move in a characteristic spiral motion by contracting and expanding its body. This flexibility also allows Euglena to move towards light sources for photosynthesis and away from harmful stimuli.
Euglena moves using a whip-like tail called a flagellum. The flagellum beats in a whip-like motion, propelling the euglena through the water. Additionally, euglena can also change its shape to move in a spinning motion.