Galanthus leaves (vernation). In the era of molecular phylogenetics this characteristic has been shown to be unreliable and now seven moleculary defined clades are recognised corresponding to the biogeographical distribution of species. New species continue to be discovered. Most species flower in winter, before the vernal equinox (20 or 21 March in the Northern Hemisphere), but some flower in early spring and late autumn. Snowdrops are sometimes confused with the two related genera within the tribe Galantheae, snowflakes "Leucojum" and "Acis". All species of "Galanthus" are perennial petaloid herbaceous bulbous (growing from bulbs) monocot plants. The genus is characterised by the
Chlamydomonas nivalis the cellular response mechanism to stressful conditions given the harsh conditions of its habitat. It is also an important organism to study adaptation to extreme environments and may become one of the leading systems for research in cold adaptation. "C. nivalis" is likely to have strong antioxidant capabilities, a robust repair mechanism, and other components that may be of interest to researchers. Thermophilic microalgae have gained biotechnological interest as a source for thermostable enzymes and commercial interest as a source for astaxanthin. "C. nivalis" could also potentially be a source for pharmaceuticals, supplements, or beauty products if the algae could