Dark double diatom
Diploneis fusca
The dark double diatom is a single-celled diatom belonging to the family Diploneidaceae. It primarily inhabits the bottom surfaces of water bodies and is characterized by its robust, siliceous valves. This species often prefers mineral-rich or slightly brackish sites in both standing and flowing waters. As a primary producer, it makes a significant contribution to oxygen supply and nutrient dynamics in the aquatic environment.
Details
Oxygen production
Produces oxygen as a byproduct of photosynthesis directly at the bottom of the water body.
Habitat function
Inhabits stones and sediments; stabilizes the biofilm on substrates.
Nutrient uptake
Absorbs nitrates, phosphates, and silicates from the surrounding water.
Food source for
Micro-herbivores such as snails, insect larvae, and small crustaceans.
Human use
Scientific use as a bioindicator for assessing the ecological status of water bodies.
Ecology
Ecological role
Primary producer in the periphyton; fixes carbon and forms the basis for benthic food chains.
Natural predators
Protozoa, rotifers, small crustaceans, and grazing snails.
Competitor species
Other benthic diatoms and green algae films.
Ecosystem service
Oxygen production and nutrient sequestration in the benthic zone.
Threats
Eutrophication, chemical pollutants, and physical destruction of the benthos.
Scientific profile
Protection & threats
Main threats
Loss of brackish water habitats due to coastal engineering, excessive eutrophication (macroalgal mat formation), chemical pollution from herbicides and heavy metals in sediments.