a major group of algae, and one of the most common types of phytoplankton. Most diatoms are unicellular, although they can exist as colonies in the shape of filaments or ribbons (e.g. Fragillaria), fa [..]

Unicellular and eukaryotic autotrophs with a siliceous frustule; mostly planktonic. dichotomous

Silt-sized algae that live in surface waters of lakes, rivers and oceans and form shells of opal. Their species distribution in ocean cores is often related to past sea surface temperatures.

Common type of unicellular phytoplankton with a silicate cell wall. The ratio of diatoms to flagellates in phytoplankton communities is used as an indicator of eutrophication

Common type of unicellular phytoplankton with a silicate cell wall. The ratio of diatoms to flagellates in phytoplankton communities is used as an indicator of eutrophication.

Type of phytoplankton that requires silica.

The common name for the phylum of microscopic unicellular Stramenopiles. Most are aquatic, being found in fresh, brackish, and salt Water. Diatoms are noted for the symmetry and sculpturing of their s [..]

simple plant cells that can occur in chains. They form the main component of the phytoplankton and also occur on the surface of the seabed and in shallow sediments

The common name for the phylum of microscopic unicellular ALGAE. Most are aquatic, being found in fresh, brackish, and salt water. Diatoms are noted for the symmetry and sculpturing of their siliceous [..]

Single-celled, hard-shelled algae with a carapace of silica. Most diatoms in the ocean are a component of the plankton, and they are among the most important producers of oxygen in the ocean. They are [..]

A type of phototroph that grows by oxygenic photosynthesis.  Like algae, their cells have nuclei, but unlike algae their cell walls are made of silicon dioxide; i.e. glass.  These are the original organisms that live in glass houses and are found in nearly all soils, sediments and waters where there is light

Unicellular (single cell), microscopic algae with a rigid, box-like internal structure consisting mainly of silica.

Microscopic algae with plate-like structures made of silica. Diatoms are considered a good food source for zooplankton.

 minute planktonic unicellular or colonial algae

Single-celled alga whose cell walls are composed of polymerized ortho-silicic acid.

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