Siliceous Collection

Diatom alga, SEM
Diatom. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the surface of the mineralised cell wall (frustule) of an unidentified diatom. This is a planktonic unicellular alga

Juan Martinez Siliceo (died in 1557), Spanish ecclesiastic, was master of Felipe II, engraving of the collection Illustrious Men

Siliceous Sinter Opal

Sponge spicules, SEM
Sponge spicules. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of spicules from a sea sponge. Sponges are primitive aquatic organisms that filter food from the water

Natural sponge, SEM
Natural sponge. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) showing the branching structure of the body of a natural sponge (phylum porifera)

Giant barrel sponge (Xestopongia testudinaria, centre) on a coral reef. Photographed off Misool, Raja Ampat, West Papua, Indonesia

Sponge on coral. Sponge (red) attached to black coral (order Antipatharia, white). Photographed oof Misool, Raja Ampat, West Papua, Indonesia

Tube sponges. Large tube sponges growing on a reef wall. Photographed off Ambon, Indonesia

Sponges on coral reef. Barrel sponges (Xestopongia sp.) and leather corals growing on a reef. Photographed off Misool, West Papua, Indonesia

Butterflyfish inside a barrel sponge
Butterflyfish (family Chaetodontidae) inside a barrel sponge (Xestospongia sp.). Photographed in Bunaken Marine Park, Sulawesi, Indonesia

Feather star and barrel sponge. Feather star, or crinoid, growing at the mouth of a barrel sponge (Xestospongia sp.). Photographed off Komodo National Park, Komodo, Indonesia

Barrel sponge. Large barrel sponge (Xestospongia sp.) growing on a reef. Photographed off Bali, Indonesia

Tube sponge growing on a reef. Photographed off Komodo National Park, Komodo, Indonesia

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Siliceous wonders under the microscope. Diatom algae, when observed through a scanning electron microscope (SEM), reveal intricate patterns and structures that showcase nature's artistic touch. These microscopic organisms, abundant in aquatic environments, construct their cell walls using silica, giving rise to their name "siliceous. " Intriguingly, siliceous formations extend beyond the realm of diatoms. Juan Martinez Siliceo, a Spanish ecclesiastic from the 16th century, left his mark in history as master of Felipe II. His contributions shaped an era long gone but not forgotten. Moving on to geological marvels, we encounter siliceous sinter opal. This mineral formation occurs when hot springs deposit layers of silica-rich water over time. The result is a breathtaking display of vibrant colors and unique textures. Delving deeper into the underwater world reveals another facet beauty – sponge spicules. Under SEM magnification, these delicate skeletal structures appear like works of art crafted by Mother Nature herself. Natural sponges also captivate with their intricate designs and porous surfaces that serve various ecological roles. The giant barrel sponge stands out among its sponge counterparts due to its impressive size and striking appearance underwater. Its presence adds grandeur to coral reefs where it often finds a home alongside other marine creatures. Tube sponges further enhance the diversity found within ocean ecosystems with their distinct cylindrical shapes and vibrant hues. Their contribution to maintaining healthy reef systems cannot be overstated. From ancient ecclesiastics to microscopic diatoms and awe-inspiring marine life forms - all connected by one common thread: siliceous wonders that continue to amaze us at every turn.