Practice question
Question
Diatom cell wall is composed of
Explanation
Diatoms represent stramenopile algae encased in highly ornate bipartite frustule composed of hydrated amorphous silica polymerized as opaline SiO2·nH2O. Valve epitheca and hypotheca overlap, featuring intricate nanopores, spines and raphe for gliding. Silicon uptake via SIT transporters, deposition in silica deposition vesicles creates species-specific ornamentation valuable for paleontology. Cellulose typical of plants, chitin of fungi, lignin of vascular plants do not form diatom walls. Siliceous composition contributes to fossil diatomaceous earth deposits and ecological dominance providing exceptional weight, protection and light modulation.
Related blogs
Guides and insights connected to this topic
SARS-CoV-2 Coronavirus: Structure, Genome, Proteins, Replication, Pathogenesis, and Host Interaction
Coronavirus Overview Coronaviruses (CoVs) are enveloped viruses (surrounded by a lipid membrane derived from host cells), belonging to the s...
Coronavirus Structure, Genome, Replication, Symptoms, Pathogenesis, and Prevention
Structure of Coronavirus Coronaviruses (enveloped RNA viruses) fall in the virus family Coronaviridae, order Nidovirales. They are enveloped...
Cucumber Mosaic Virus (CMV): Structure, Genome, Symptoms, Disease Cycle and Management
Cucumber Mosaic Virus (CMV): Introduction and Importance Cucumber Mosaic Virus (CMV) (plant-infecting RNA virus) is one of the most economic...