The Invisible ABCs

Exploring the World of Microbes...

Letter W

Asteroplanus karianus

Habitat:

 

Asteroplanus is a microorganism that belongs to the group of algae called diatoms.  It is found in polar and temperate aquatic environments.

 

Importance:

 

Asteroplanus is a microorganism that harvests its energy from sunlight using a process known as photosynthesis.  During photosynthesis, oxygen is released.  In addition, diatoms and other photosynthetic microbes are the basis for the food chain in aquatic environments.

 

Classification:

 

Asteroplanus is a unicellular alga called a diatom.  Diatoms have two glass-like shells.