ETYM Greek diatomos cut in two. Related to Diatomous.
Microscopic unicellular marine or freshwater colonial alga having cell walls impregnated with silica.
Species of algae. diatomaceous, adj containing many diatoms.
Microscopic alga of the division Bacillariophyta found in all parts of the world. Diatoms consist of single cells, sometimes grouped in colonies.
The cell wall is made up of two overlapping valves known as frustules, which are usually impregnated with silica, and which fit together like the lid and body of a pillbox. Diatomaceous earths (diatomite) are made up of the valves of fossil diatoms, and are used in the manufacture of dynamite and in the rubber and plastics industries.
Any of a class (Bacillariophyceae) of minute planktonic unicellular or colonial algae with silicified skeletons that form diatomaceous earth.