Forked diatom
Bacteriastrum furcatum
Bacteriastrum furcatum is a microscopic diatom that drifts in the sunlit surface layers of the ocean.
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About this species
Species identity
Bacteriastrum furcatum is a microscopic diatom that drifts in the sunlit surface layers of the ocean. Its cells connect in long chains, each with delicate forked spines that help the organism remain suspended in the water. It lives as part of the plankton, moving passively with currents and responding to changing light and nutrient conditions.
Where it lives
Bacteriastrum furcatum is known from temperate and warm parts of the world’s oceans. Plankton monitoring in the Mediterranean Sea, including the northern Adriatic portion of that sea, has recorded members of its genus, indicating that Bacteriastrum furcatum occurs there as well. The species lives in sunlit surface waters where it drifts with the plankton.
Role in the ecosystem
Forked diatom helps explain how marine food webs function through its ecological role, habitat use, and connection to broader ecosystem change.
Scientific reference
Ocean Literacy Connections
This resource can be explored through Ocean biodiversity and Ocean makes life possible.
- How do ocean habitats support so many forms of life and interaction?
- How does the ocean help make Earth habitable?
Explore and connect
Open the primary producer view and compare this species with related marine life.
