Fascinating single‐cell red algae: models for evolution and adaptation

New Phytologist 2026 Open access

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Authors: Frédéric Berger, D. Bhattacharya, Chung Hyun Cho, Seok‐Wan Choi, Julia Van Etten, Shunsuke Hirooka, Tzu‐Yen Huang, Kyle J. Lauersen, Yongsung Lee, Shao‐Lun Liu, Shin‐ya Miyagishima, Stephen D. Rader
+2 more Daniel Schubert, Hwan Su Yoon
DOI: 10.1111/nph.71024
Cited by: 2
References: 108

Abstract

The unicellular red algae, Cyanidiophyceae, that diverged early during Archaeplastida (algal and plant) evolution, occupy a variety of extreme habitats that are inhospitable for most other eukaryotes. With the use of modern genomics and genetics methods, Cyanidiophyceae show a remarkable taxonomic diversity, share haplodiplophasic life cycles, and are engaged in complex trophic interactions with microbes that occupy geothermal niches. Amenable to molecular engineering, Cyanidiophyceae are excellent models for understanding evolutionary mechanisms that underpin their extremophilic lifestyles. Their unique growth conditions make these choice red algae of high interest for biotechnological exploitation in environments unsuitable for crops.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Algal biology and biofuel production Photosynthetic Processes and Mechanisms Marine and coastal plant biology

Publication details

Journal / source
New Phytologist
Publisher
Wiley
Volume
250
Issue
3
Pages
1424–1437
Publication date
18 February 2026
Language
EN