Image provided by: University of Oregon Libraries; Eugene, OR
About The daily Astorian. (Astoria, Or.) 1961-current | View Entire Issue (April 27, 2017)
APRIL 27, 2017 // 21 Algae By LYNETTE MCADAMS Found on every continent, in nearly every ecosystem, the organisms that make up the group we call “algae” are as diverse as they are widespread. More than 70,000 different species fall within this clas- sification, ranging from the smallest green algae, which is single-celled and microscopic, to the largest brown algae, the giant kelp, which can grow to almost 200 feet. Able to survive on land but found even more abun- dantly in water, algae plays a vital role in life on Earth, forming the very foundation of the food chain and produc- ing more than 50 percent of the atmosphere’s oxygen. Loosely defined as simple plants, most algae contain chlorophyll and use photo- synthesis to create the energy they need for growth. Highly aquatic, they thrive equally in freshwater lakes, saltwa- ter oceans or brackish bays, enduring a range of tem- peratures and acidities, from polar ice floes to mineral-lad- en hot springs. Here in the Colum- bia-Pacific region, where water seems ubiquitous and daylight hours are lengthen- ing, multiple species of algae are flourishing, showing off a seasonal vigor that will last through the summer and into early autumn, when the sunlight wanes. Until then, look for them in local ponds and lakes, along slow-mov- ing stream beds, and in bird baths, rain barrels and water- ing troughs. Some algae don’t require pools of water in order to grow; any moist, out-of-the- way spot will do, including roof tops, wet walls and the shady parts of decks and walkways. Though most live independently or in same-species colonies, some algae form symbiotic rela- tionships with other organ- isms. Lichens, reef-forming corals and marine sponges, are all examples of the mutu- ally beneficial union that can occur between algae and a willing host. When waterways become polluted or otherwise out of balance, toxic “blooms” of algae can occur, setting off a negative chain reaction that can be catastrophic to mul- tiple species of animals and plant life, including humans. But the planetary advantages of algae far outweigh the risks: Currently, algae are being cultivated simultane- ously for use as a superfood, a highly efficient biofuel and as the primary element in biodegradable plastics. They cleanse the air of carbon dioxide, remove heavy metals from water, aid in the decontamination of sewage and help clean up oil spills. Perhaps most impor- tantly, algae, in the form of carrageenan, is a key ingredient in most chocolate candy bars. Beach Books honors Independent Bookstore Day PHOTO BY LYNETTE MCADAMS Our frequently damp coastline is the perfect environment for algae to thrive. Here, green algae grows on the lee side of a chicken coop in Ocean Park, Washington. SEASIDE — To celebrate Independent Bookstore Day on Saturday, April 29, Sea- side’s Beach Books will host author Karen Karbo, who will discuss her powerful women’s books from 10 a.m. to noon. Seaside Library Direc- tor Esther Moberg will hold a children’s reading at 2 p.m. The fun lasts all day. Treats and exclusive day-of merchandise, created just for Independent Bookstore Day, will be available. ZIP LINE TOURS COME ZIP N’ SIP WITH US!!! ENJOY 8 ZIP LINES IN A BEAUTIFUL SETTING! Th e Illahee Apartments OVER A MILE OF ZIPPING 92111 HIGHLIFE ROAD, WARRENTON, OREGON For More Info Call 503.861.9875 Reservations Required: www.highlife-adventures.com H IGH CBD AND THC F LOWERS E XTRACTS * C ONCENTRATES E DIBLES * T OPICALS % 17 Where Astoria Shops! 1046 Grand Avenue Astoria, OR 97103 503-325-2280 See 3% ils (Plus e for deta t i s eb our w E VERY D AY IS 420 AT T HE F ARMACY WITH C ASH B ACK R EWARDS !! Welcome to the 2017 Crab Festival ! ax sales l o t c a l t a x ) Downtown Astoria’s Most Respected Apartment Complex Since 1969. GREAT BEVERA S, FOODS & ZIP LI GE NES! A Recrea Licensed tional M Retaile arijuana r Free Home Delivery! 2911 M ARINE D R #B A STORIA , OR 97103 503-325-3276 (within City of Astoria limits, only) Current Winter Hours Check our menu at Our Mon-Sat 10 am - 8 pm Sun 12 Noon - 6 pm HE ARMACY COM T F 420.
