Knowra Diatom Diatom A diatom is a single-celled photosynthetic alga whose cell is enclosed by a silica wall called a frustule. Diatoms inhabit marine and freshwater environments and contribute substantially to aquatic primary production.
Frustule : The silica cell wall of a diatom, typically composed of two overlapping halves patterned with pores and ridges. Its two-part, intricately patterned shell defines diatom form.
Photosynthesis : The process by which organisms use light energy to convert carbon dioxide and water into energy-rich organic compounds. Diatoms fix carbon using light, supporting aquatic food webs.
Diatom bioindicator : A use of diatom communities to assess environmental conditions, especially water quality. Different species tolerate different nutrient levels, acidity, and pollution.
Phytoplankton : Microscopic photosynthetic organisms that drift in aquatic environments. Diatoms are a major component of this drifting producer community.
Thalassiosira pseudonana : A small marine centric diatom widely used as a model organism in laboratory research. Its compact genome and tractable cultivation make it a common experimental diatom.
Silica : A compound of silicon and oxygen that occurs widely in minerals and is used by organisms to build structures. Diatoms draw dissolved silica from water to construct their frustules.
Silicon cycle : The movement of silicon among rocks, soils, waters, organisms, and sediments. Diatom growth and sinking shells transfer silicon through aquatic ecosystems.
Diatom analysis : The identification and counting of diatom remains in samples to infer ecological or historical conditions. Assemblages preserved in sediments reveal past water environments.
Bacillariophyceae : A major class of diatoms, including many familiar marine and freshwater species. This taxonomic group contains the organisms described by the common name diatom.
Pseudo-nitzschia : A genus of pennate diatoms that includes species capable of producing the neurotoxin domoic acid. Some members cause harmful blooms associated with amnesic shellfish poisoning.
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