The silicate framework of a diatom does not conduct electricity. For a scanning electron microscope image it would therefore have to be coated, which can result in details of the structure not being ...

Fossilized microscopic algae offer insights into historic environmental conditions and provide a clearer picture of how the climate has changed through the ages.

Diatoms are unique phytoplankton in that they need silicic acid to produce silica cell walls. Under the microscope they look like beautiful glass jewellery boxes, but importantly, this dense, ...