Snow Algae
Snow and ice algae are cold-tolerant algae
growing on snow and ice and
have been reported on snow fields and
glaciers in many parts of the world.
Visible snow algal blooms are well known as
The color is caused by red-pigmented Chlorophyta
(green algae, usually Chamydomonas nivalis) and
has been well studied taxonomically and physiologically
on snow fields.
More than 100 species of snow algae have been reported
in the world and they are mainly green algae or cyanobacteria.
The snow algae sustain cold-tolerant animal and
bacterial communities
on snow fields and glaciers.
The ecology of snow algae is important
for understanding the glacial ecosystem.
Red snow (Watermelon snow)
Have you ever seen red colored snow ?
Red snow or watermelon snow usually
can be seen in spring or early summer
when snow is thawing.
Red snow is a common phenomenum
on snow fields and glaciers
in many parts of the world.
Red snow is caused by blooming of snow algae.
Microscopy of red snow shows red colored cells of snow algae.
Microscopy of red snow: many red cells can be seen
A snow algal cell, Chlamydomonas nivalis.
Red snow in Tateyama, Japan
Red snow patchs on Juneau Icefield, Alaska