Algae are not called "thales." You might be thinking of Thales of Miletus, an ancient Greek philosopher and mathematician who lived around 624-546 BC.

* Thales is famous for being the first known individual to propose a non-mythological explanation for natural phenomena. He is credited with predicting a solar eclipse and suggesting that water is the fundamental substance of the universe.

* Algae are a diverse group of photosynthetic organisms, ranging from single-celled to multicellular forms. They are not directly related to Thales in any way.

Perhaps you're thinking of a different term related to algae? Could you clarify your question?