Page 142 - The Microworld Miracle

the ability to perform photosynthesis. Diatoms represent 90% of the
living organisms in the oceans. There are also freshwater varieties
of diatoms.
Diatoms possess a double shell that is hard because it contains
silesia, for which reason diatoms' forms are impressive and rather
attractively arranged. They are divided in two symmetrically by a
line running down their middles. Each symmetrical half contains

other symmetrical figures. This symmetry exhibits a flawless geom-
etry, a marvel of superior Creation. Diatoms are all works of art,
displaying the most flawless structure among microorganisms.
Their different shapes have measurements calculated with the
greatest care, showing that these living things are the matchless
work of a sublime Creator. In these terms, diatoms are all works of
art, with the most flawless and symmetrical structure among micro-

organisms.
Some 10,000 living and 15,000 extinct species of diatom have
been described. Along with other photosynthetic algae, they consti-
tute the food chain of the tropical oceans. They are responsible for
the annual production of 130,000 tons (286,600,000 pounds) of or-
ganic carbon, the basic nutrient of living things and whose produc-
tion is most important for the world's ecology. Through their proc-
ess of photosynthesis, diatoms are among the major consumers of
THE MICROWORLD MIRACLE thesis and permits the release of free oxygen, are only some 25 mi-
carbon dioxide.
This living things, which produce their own food by photosyn-

crons in size. The other benefits provided by this microorganism
may be summarized as follows. Diatoms represent an important
food source for marine creatures like fish and whales. At the same

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