Algae are generally classified based on the following characteristics:
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Chemistry and physical features of the cell wall
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Form of reserve food materials or assimilatory products of photosynthesis
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Morphological characteristic of cells and thalli
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Chlorophyll pigments and other accessory pigments present
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Habitat
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Reproductive structures and methods of reproduction
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Life history pattern
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Number and morphology of flagella and their point of insertion in motile cells