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Diagnostic features

Raphes absent. Frustules long and narrow in both valve and girdle view, forming ribbons of cells joined side to side (via small interlocking spines at the valve edges; these not visible with the light microscope).  Ribbons often attached to submerged plant surfaces.

Typical habitats

Slow-flowing habitats such as ponds and lake outlets.

Notes

Can smother plant surfaces

Classification

Kingdom Chromista
Phylum Ochrophyta
Subphylum Khakista
Class Bacillariophyceae
Order Fragilariales
Family Fragilariaceae
Common name Diatoms