Coccoliths,coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM). Coccoliths are individual plates of calcium carbonate formed by coccolithophores (single-celled algae). The plates are arranged around the organism in a coccosphere but their function is unclear. Suggestions include: defence against grazing by zooplankton or infection by bacteria or viruses; maintenance of buoyancy; release of carbon dioxide for photosynthesis; to filter out harmful UV light; or in deep-dwelling species,to concentrate light for photosynthesis. Magnification: x2500 when printed 10 centimetres wide | |
Licence : | Droits gérés |
Crédit: | Science Photo Library / Gschmeissner, Steve |
Taille de l’image : | 4658 px × 3768 px |
Model Release : | Non requis |
Property Release : | Non requis |
Restrictions : | - |