Fragilaria

/ˌfrædʒɪˈlɛəriə/ noun

Definition

A genus of diatoms, which are single-celled algae with silica shells, commonly found in freshwater environments.

Etymology

From Latin fragilis (fragile, breakable) + -aria (relating to). Named for the delicate, easily-broken silica shells of these microscopic organisms.

Kelly Says

Fragilaria diatoms have shells made of pure glass (silica), yet they're invisible to the naked eye—they're nature's microscopic glass sculptures, which is why they're called 'fragile' despite being rock-hard.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.