cryptophyte
/ˈkrɪptəˌfaɪt/
noun
- A type of single-celled alga that lives in water, often found in lakes and oceans.
- The pond water sample contained many cryptophytes, which gave it a brownish tint.
- Some cryptophytes can produce toxins that affect fish populations.
- Scientists study cryptophytes to understand how they capture light for photosynthesis.
- A plant that survives unfavorable seasons (like winter or drought) by having its growing buds hidden underground or underwater.
- Gardeners often plant cryptophytes because they return year after year.
- Many bulbs are cryptophytes, storing energy underground until spring arrives.
- The cryptophyte's buds remained safe beneath the soil during the cold months.