👉 Augilina is a type of algae that belongs to the family Echinodermata, which includes jellyfish and other marine invertebrates. They are characterized by their large surface area-to-volume ratio and specialized cells called microsporidia. These microsporidia form a protective outer layer that covers the cell membrane, allowing for rapid growth and reproduction. In addition to their role as food sources, some species of algae also serve as pollutants and decomposers in aquatic ecosystems.