Caption
3D reconstruction of a microalgae in the diatom group, phaeodactylum tricornutum. The cellular complexity of diatoms, a major group of marine phytoplankton, is only now becoming apparent. Studying series of cross-sections produced using electron microscopy reveals the three-dimensional organisation of organelles inside their cells. The scientists produced a 3D reconstruction of diatom cells, showing their internal ultrastructure and compartments. This model also enabled them to understand how these organisms organised the intetrnal structure of their chloroplast to optimise photosynthesis.
