Spirogyra Filamentous Algae

Though many refer to filamentous algae belonging to the genus Spirogyra as pond scum, the delicate green strands are sometimes known by more complimentary terms, such as water-silk or mermaid's tresses. The beauty of Spirogyra is most prominent under the microscope, where helices of emerald-hued chloroplasts can be seen spiraling the length of its tubular cells.