A diatom (Neo-Latin diatoma) [a] is any member of a large group comprising several genera of algae, specifically microalgae, found in the oceans, waterways and soils of the world.

diatom, (class Bacillariophyceae), any member of the algal class Bacillariophyceae (division Chromophyta), with about 16,000 species found in sediments or attached to solid substances in all the waters of Earth.

Diatoms are algae that live in houses made of glass. They are the only organism on the planet with cell walls composed of transparent, opaline silica. Diatom cell walls are ornamented by intricate and striking patterns of silica. Why should I care?

Mar 1, 2022 · Diatoms are a major phytoplankton group, playing a critical role in the biogeochemical cycles of chemical elements such as carbon. They are one of the most abundant single-celled photosynthetic algae, contributing to about 40% of total marine primary production.

5 days ago · The diatoms are an amazing group of organisms, part of the Stremenopile lineage of life. These photosynthetic unicells (ranging from 1 µm to over 1 mm in size) have chlorophylls a and c, and a complement of accessory pigments that include xanthophylls and carotenoids, making the living cells golden-brown in color.

Diatoms are single-celled algae belonging to the group of eukaryotic phytoplankton that have existed for >180 million years. Present in many areas of the world, they are particularly widespread at high latitudes and in coastal ecosystems rich in nutrients (Malviya et al., 2016).

Diatoms are an incredibly diverse group of unicellular organisms containing anywhere from 20,000 to 2 million species. These organisms are unicellular and surrounded by a frustule, a silica shell made from two distinct valves that enclose the plasma membrane.

Jun 24, 2022 · A diatom is a unicellular eukaryotic alga characterized by having a siliceous covering and a symmetrical body. Diatoms are mostly aquatic, being found in fresh, brackish, and saltwater.

Aug 18, 2020 · Diatoms are unicellular or colonial photoautotrophic microalgae, eukaryotic organisms classified as protists of the group of the Bacillariophyta. They are characterized by the unique feature of possessing a cell wall made of silica. Diatoms form an extremely diverse and evolutionarily successful group.

Apr 9, 2024 · A diatom is a tiny, single-celled algae with a hard shell made of silica, found in oceans, waterways, and soil. They play a crucial role in oxygen production, nutrient cycling, and the food web of aquatic ecosystems.