Science Visualized Ecosystems

Encased algae create kaleidoscope of color

Diatoms, which churn out oxygen in Earth’s oceans, are arranged into microscopic artwork

DIATOMIC ART  This colorful pattern, which is hundreds of microns across, is made up of hard-shelled algae called diatoms. 

Klaus Kemp

By Sarah Schwartz

- More than 2 years ago

Under a microscope, carefully arranged diatoms form a dazzling display.

Diatoms are single-celled algae (in the stramenopile supergroup) that live in sunny, wet habitats.