Identify the algal division: chlorophylls A and B, starch storage, cellulosic walls, freshwater and marine habitats Which algal division matches these traits: chlorophylls a and b, starch as the principal storage product, cellulose-rich walls, and occurrence in both freshwater and marine environments?

Introduction / Context:
Trait matching is a reliable way to place algal samples into broad divisions in the absence of sequencing. This question compiles hallmark features that point to one well known group of algae used in teaching and biotechnology.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Pigments: chlorophyll a and b.
• Storage: starch within plastids.
• Cell wall: predominately cellulose.
• Habitats: freshwater and marine.

Concept / Approach:
Green algae (Chlorophyta) possess chlorophylls a and b, store starch, and have cellulose rich walls—features shared with land plants, reflecting evolutionary relationships. Other divisions differ in pigments (fucoxanthin in browns), storage (laminarin in browns, oils in many diatoms), and cell coverings (silica frustules in diatoms, theca in dinoflagellates).

Step-by-Step Solution:
Compare pigments: a+b suggests green lineage.Check storage: starch aligns with Chlorophyta.Verify wall composition: cellulose dominant points to green algae.Confirm broad habitat range: consistent with Chlorophyta.Select “Chlorophyta (green algae).”

Verification / Alternative check:
Representative genera such as Chlamydomonas, Ulva, and Volvox demonstrate these traits across aquatic systems.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Phaeophyta use laminarin and have fucoxanthin; Chrysophyta/diatoms have silica frustules and oil storage; dinoflagellates possess thecal plates; red algae have chlorophyll a (not b) with phycobiliproteins.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing chlorophyll b presence (greens) with chlorophyll c (browns and some other heterokonts). The storage product provides a second check.

Final Answer:
Chlorophyta (green algae).