Write a note on economic importance of algae and gymnosperms.

The note is as follows:

 Economic importance of algae: In a variety of ways the algae is useful to mankind. They perform half of the total carbon dioxide fixation on earth by photosynthesis, acting as the primary producers in aquatic habitats. Chlorella and Spirulina are rich in proteins. They are used as food supplements as many species of marine algae such as Porphyra, Sargassum, and Laminaria are edible. In the preparation of jellies and ice cream agar is used. It is obtained from Gelidium and Gracilaria. In chocolates, paints, and toothpaste the carrageenan is used as an emulsifier. It is obtained from the red algae. Many red algae are used in treating worm infections eg. Corallina.

Economic importance of gymnosperms: Gymnospermous plants are widely used as ornamentals. Many conifers such as pine, cedar, etc., are sources of softwood used in construction and packing. It has medicinal uses also as an anticancer drug Taxol is obtained from Taxus. For the treatment of asthma and bronchitis, many species of Ephedra are used which produces ephedrine. The seeds of Pinus gerardiana are edible. For manufacturing sealing waxes and water-proof paints, the resins are used commercially. Turpentine a type of resin is obtained from various species of Pinus.