Galanthus reginae-olgae three smaller inner tepals, white with variable green markings near the tips. The outer tepals are about 15–35 cm long, the inner ones 9–12 mm long. Populations of "Galanthus reginae-olgae" that flower at different times, with or without the leaves being fully developed, have been described as separate species or subspecies. Those described as "G. reginae-olgae" subsp. "reginae-olgae" flower in the autumn, either before the leaves develop or with the leaves. Those described as "G. reginae-olgae" subsp. "vernalis" flower in late winter or early spring, with the leaves. "Galanthus reginae-olgae" was first described in 1876 by Theodoros G. Orphanides. The
Chlamydomonas nivalis such that it is covered by the carotenoid globules full of astaxanthin that will provide protection against UV radiation. The majority (91%) of astaxanthin derivatives are stored in its monoester form within dormant "C. nivalis" red cysts. Astaxanthin is the pigment that makes the cell appear deep red. Other pigments that can also be found in "C. nivalis" include violaxanthin and fadonirubin. Visible algal blooms could be a crucial determinant of surface albedo. It has been suggested that algal blooms partially composed of "C. nivalis" may contribute to lowering ice and snow albedo. The red coloured pigments produced by the