What are microscopic photosynthetic plants without roots, stems, or leaves associated with water problems such as taste, odor, and filter clogging?

The presence of microscopic photosynthetic organisms that lack roots, stems, or leaves is characteristic of algae. Algae are a diverse group of aquatic organisms capable of photosynthesis, contributing significantly to aquatic ecosystems as primary producers. They play a crucial role in oxygen production and serve as a food source for various aquatic life forms.

When algae proliferate excessively, often referred to as algal blooms, they can lead to water quality issues such as unpleasant taste and odor in drinking water, as well as clogging of water filtration systems. This can create significant challenges for water treatment facilities and may necessitate additional treatment processes to ensure water safety and palatability.

In contrast, yeasts are fungi that are not typically involved in photosynthesis, while protozoa and rotifers are microscopic, aquatic organisms but also do not possess the photosynthetic capability that defines algae. Therefore, the identification of these organisms as the source of water-related issues aligns with the characteristics and behaviors of algae specifically.