Question

Whatis the nature of cell-walls in diatoms?

Answer 1

Thecell walls of diatoms are made of silica. Their cell wallconstruction is known as frustule. It consists of two thinoverlapping shells that fit into each other such as a soap box. Whenthe diatoms die, the silica in their cell walls gets deposited in theform of diatomaceous earth. This diatomaceous earth is very soft andquite inert. It is used in filtration of oils, sugars, and for otherindustrial purposes.