This is an old revision of the document!
Diatoms
Diatoms are a type of algae that are commonly found in aquatic environments, including iAVS systems. They are single-celled organisms that have a unique cell wall made of silica, which gives them a distinctive shape and structure. Diatoms are photosynthetic and play an important role in the food chain, as they are a primary food source for many aquatic organisms.
In iAVS systems, diatoms are beneficial because they help to maintain water quality by consuming excess nutrients and producing oxygen. They also help to stabilize the sand bed by producing a slimy substance that binds the sand particles together, which improves the sand's ability to filter water. This slimy substance is called extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), and it is a key component of the biofilm that forms on the surface of the sand bed.