Genus: Thalassiosira | Diatom

Order: Biddulphiales
Family: Thalassiosiraceae

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Description: Well-studied marine genus with over 100 species. Discoid cells are in chains or are embedded in mucilage (i.e. T. subtilis).  Chains-forming species are connected by a central organic thread. Numerous spine-like threads also extruded from strutted processes on valve margins.

Cell Size: Diameter (apical axis) = 3-186um

Distribution: Widespread throughout the world's oceans.

Common Species: T. rotula, T. aestivalis, T. nordenskioldii, T. anguste-lineata.