luthie creeper's video: The Use of Diatoms in Forensic Science

Become a Patron: https://www.patreon.com/LuthieCreeper Diatoms are a type of algae, microscopic organisms that live mostly in the sea, in ponds, lakes, and streams. They can also be found on moist rocks, even in mud and soil. These tiny organisms are the most diverse of all algae. There about 16,000 different species of diatoms worldwide. Diatoms can tell scientists about past environmental conditions in fresh water and marine environments as long ago as tens of thousands of years. Each diatom is housed in an incredibly complex structure made up of silica, or glass. When seen under the microscope, they display a beautiful range of shapes, colors and ornamentation. While diatoms may be art, they can also be pieces of evidence. Any body of water has hundreds, if not thousands, of species of diatoms. The types of diatoms and how many exist of the various species, is unique to that body of water. In any given water body you can essentially examine the microscopic organisms, and in effect, create a fingerprint for that water body.