While diatoms may be incredibly small, these micro algae, together with green and blue-green algae (cyanobacteria), are among the key producers of oxygen on Earth.
While diatoms may be incredibly small, these micro algae, together with green and blue-green algae (cyanobacteria), are among the key producers of oxygen on Earth.
Armour of glass
They protect themselves from their enemies by means of a ‘glass house’ surrounding the cell – a strong armour made of silica. The skeleton consists of two glass bowls which fit together like a box and a lid. Some diatoms even have spikes for enhanced protection. The glass shielding looks like it has been built with great precision, with stunning, intricate patterns of fine pores, ridges and knobs, each more beautiful than the last. Many diatom species form chains of these glass houses linked together, sometimes in the shape of a screw.
Polish or abrasive
The houses are indestructible. Even after millions of years, they can still be found at the bottoms of lakes. After an extended period of time, they turn into a type of soil known as kieselguhr or diatomaceous earth. This is often used as a polish or abrasive, for example in toothpaste and as a filter in breweries.