Diatom - Arachnoidiscus
by M. I. Walker
Title
Diatom - Arachnoidiscus
Artist
M. I. Walker
Medium
Photograph - Photograph
Description
Diatom alga. Light micrograph of a disk-shaped diatom, Arachnodiscus sp.. Diatoms, members of a division of the algae family, are microscopic unicellular organisms that occur abundantly in marine and freshwater plankton. They form an important part of the food chain. The body is composed of two halves, which fit together like a tiny pill box. The cell walls contain silica, which is preserved in deposits known as siliceous or diatomaceous earths (ooze). Once hardened into rock it is called diatomite. The high porosity of this rock enables it to be used for filters, fillers and as a mild abrasive. Magnification x80. Anoptral contrast.
Uploaded
June 6th, 2013
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