There are 100,000's of species of diatoms out there in the worlds' oceans, lakes, and rivers–we provided students with a minute array of diatom paper cut-outs to use. Even still they were amazed at the variety at hand at that these represented REAL cells! It sparked fun conversations regarding cell shape, function, and the important role phytoplankton play in sequestering atmospheric CO2.

Microscopists and artists of the 19th century were transfixed by the exquisite shapes and complex opaline glass coverings of diatoms and used their great beauty to share the hidden treasures in the depths of the ocean. We were thrilled to see the students embrace that same fascination and learn more about these important organisms.