Zigzag diatom
Tabellaria flocculosa
Tabellaria flocculosa is a single-celled diatom primarily known for its characteristic zigzag or star-shaped colonies. Individual cells are connected at their corners by small mucilage pads. It prefers oligotrophic to mesotrophic, lentic or slow-moving lotic waters. As a significant primary producer, it forms an essential foundation for the aquatic food web.
Details
Oxygen production
Actively produces oxygen during the light phase through photosynthesis.
Habitat function
Component of the biofilm on substrates and an important part of the phytoplankton.
Nutrient uptake
Absorbs silica for cell wall construction as well as nitrate and phosphate for metabolism.
Food source for
Primary consumers in the aquatic ecosystem, especially small zooplankton.
Human use
Indicator organism in paleolimnology for determining historical water quality.
Ecology
Ecological role
Important primary producer in the pelagic and benthic zones; contributes to the oxygen saturation of the water.
Natural predators
Herbivorous zooplankton (e.g., Daphnia, rotifers) and filter-feeding macroinvertebrates.
Competitor species
Other planktonic diatoms such as Asterionella formosa or Fragilaria species.
Ecosystem service
Oxygen production and sequestration of atmospheric carbon dioxide.
Threats
Excessive nutrient input (eutrophication) and chemical contamination of water bodies.
Scientific profile
Profile
Distinguishing features
Zig-zag colonies; numerous septa visible in girdle view; the center of the valve is usually as wide as or wider than the ends (distinction from T. fenestrata).
Reproduction
Asexual reproduction via cell division (accompanied by a reduction in valve size); sexual reproduction via auxospore formation to restore cell size.
Protection & threats
Main threats
Eutrophication (nutrient input), salinization, and chemical pollution of water bodies.
Conservation measures
Preservation and protection of oligotrophic soft-water lakes and bog waters; reduction of diffuse nutrient inputs from agriculture.