Silicoflagellates are among the group of life forms that make up the phytoplankton. They belong to a small group of marine organisms with a (silica) glass-like skeleton. The silicoflagellates, diatoms and some sponges are the only organisms to use silica instead of calcium for their skeletons. The cell size ranges from 20 to 100 microns. They have the capability to live and grow through photosynthesis as well as engulfing organic materials such as bacterias as a source of food. Living silicoflagellates propel themselves with one long flagellum to allow it to swim toward favorable living conditions, such as light. The spines on the skeleton may function in retarding sinking, which is important to a photosynthetic organism. This silicoflagellate in this photograph was captured using Differential Interference Contrast Microscopy at very high magnification. Close to the borderline of the capability of a light microscope using visible light. The silicoflagellate in this photograph was just above 50 microns (0.05 mm) across.

Available in 1 size:

26x37 cm (10.2”x14.6”) - Limited edition of 20 + 2 Artist’s proofs

Size denotes the printed area. The photo media is larger with at least 4 cm (1.5”) of white borders on each side.