Details
Materials
- A clear plastic ball that can be found at most craft stores. (this is the silica house for the diatom). Often used to make christmas ornaments
- Tacky Glue (will prevent your bead, foam piece, or pom from rolling down the side)
- Small green pom poms, foam bits or pony beads
Download Files
- (128.66 KB)
Overview
Diatoms are one of the main kinds of phytoplankton we found blooming in the Bering Sea. They are so beautiful, little glass houses with green gems inside. They occur in huge numbers in the Bering Sea in the initial spring ice melting algae bloom. Having one to touch and look at puts a face on what it is, a microscopic food factory that supports much of the life in one of the world’s most productive seas.
Objective
To learn more about one of the main kinds of phytoplankton found in the Bering Sea.
Preparation
Discuss Bering Sea, food web, diatoms, algae blooms
Description
Squeeze out small dabs of tacky glue randomly about an inch apart all over the inside of the plastic ball. Stick green, light blue, and light green beads on the dabs. Let dry. Put halves together.
Resources
n/a
Credits
Maggie Prevanas
mprevenas@polartrec.com