How does unicellular algae reproduce?

Asexual reproduction of unicellular algae occurs under favorable conditions. As a result of division, 2, 4, or 8 motile zoospores are formed in the mother’s cell. Zoospores leave the mother cell and grow to the size of an adult.

Sexually, unicellular algae reproduce when conditions unfavorable for life occur. In this case, sex cells – gametes – appear inside the alga. Gametes of different algae of the same species go out into the water and connect in pairs. Each pair of gametes forms a zygote, which is covered with a thick membrane. With the onset of favorable conditions, the zygote divides, forming four young algae.