Algal Systematics and Biodiversity

Terrestrial Green Algal Systematics

In this project we are studying the green algae occurring in sloth hair. It is widely known that sloths appear green because of the algae growing in their hair. However, the reason for this and the origin of algae is still unclear. It has been hypothesized that it is a symbiotic relationship as well as it has been suggested that the sloths are so slow that any terrestrial algae start growing on their hair.

We have approached the question by sampling several sloth species in Central and Southern America and used molecular phylogenetics to resolve it. The work is being carried out by Milla Suutari (milla.suutariAThelsinki.fi) and it is being done in collaboration with Dr. Fabio Rindi at the National University of Ireland, Galway.