Diatom Maximum Layer (Biotic Group)

Component: Biotic

Unique Identifier: 485

Biotic Setting	Planktonic Biota
Biotic Class	Phytoplankton
Biotic Subclass	Diatom Phytoplankton
Biotic Group	Diatom Maximum Layer
Biotic Community	Asterionellopsis Maximum Layer

Description

Definition

Relatively thin layer dominated by diatoms at depth in the water column. Layers of high diatom density generally form in the surface mixed layer and have also been found at deep subsurface maxima. These are associated with nutrient or temperature maxima.