Diatoms of North AmericaDiatoms of North America

Glossary

Like the rest of this website, the glossary is a work in progress. If we’ve missed a term, please contact us to let us know the term and references.

Raphe ledge

A raphe ledge is a thin, elevated structure with the shape of the letter T that extends along the lateral side of the raphe. The raphe ledge is common in the genus Amphora and closely related genera.

Compared to a conopeum, a raphe ledge is more elevated, more narrow, and does not cover part of the valve face.

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