Genus: Coscinodiscus | Diatom

Order: Biddulphiales
Family: Coscinodiscaceae

Description: Cells are disc-shaped, cylindrical or wedge-shaped, and solitary. Distinct rosette of large areolae in the center of the valve. Numerous chloroplasts.

Cell Size: Diameter (apical axis) = 30-500um

Distribution: Widespread - warm water to boreal.

Interesting Facts: Usually regarded as one of the largest marine planktonic diatom genera (400–500 taxa described and identified).

Monterey Bay Species: C. centralis, C. granii.