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Chain Diatom
Diatoms can occur as single cells or in long colonial chains. They are one of the most common organisms in the plankton. Not all diatoms float freely in the water. Many may be found clinging to surfaces such as seaweed, marine snails, crustaceans and even turtles. Whales often carry dense growths of diatoms on their skin.
Photo: Peter Parks © 2001 by Image Quest 3-D
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Copyright © Australian Museum 2002
