radiolarians

Radiolarians are tiny, single-celled marine organisms with intricate, silica-based skeletons that create beautiful, lace-like structures. Found throughout the ocean, they float in the water column, capturing food using their delicate extensions. Their skeletons serve as protective shells and contribute to the ocean's sediment when they die. Radiolarians play a key role in marine ecosystems by helping to regulate plankton populations and forming part of the ocean's microscopic food web. Their unique, detailed skeletons also provide valuable fossils that help scientists study Earth's past climates and ocean history.