The Biology of Algae

Previously, whenever surfing during a red tide, I've vaguely wondered what the heck I was actually floating in: now, thanks to The Biology of Algae, I know with absolute certainty that I was amongst the dinoflagellates, which are more closely related to ciliated protists than to other forms of algae (a catchall term for various photosynthetic organisms). If that's as clear as an algae-choked pond, that's because this installment from the 16-volume The Biology of… series (see review of The Biology of Flatworms in VL Online-8/01) assumes a knowledge of microbiological vocabulary and a familiarity with single-celled organisms. In addition to dinoflagellates, the program looks at the other evolutionary branches of algae, including red, green, brown, and euglenids--using both stock footage and excellent microscopic photography--while specific examples such as Spyrogyra (not the jazz band) or Euglena help pinpoint identifying characteristics. The DVD version also includes a study guide in DVD-ROM accessible PDF format. Recommended. Aud: H, C. (E. Gieschen)