Diatoms of North AmericaDiatoms of North America
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Guide to Craticula cuspidata

(Kütz.) D.G.Mann 1990

Craticula Cuspidata Guide
Credit: Lauren Fuelling
  1. Valves with narrow apices
  2. Striae parallel, equidistant
  3. Axial area narrow
  4. Raphe filiform

Valves are rhombic-lanceolate with narrow apices. Striae form an orthostichous pattern with transverse, parallel striae lying equidistant and intersected by thin longitudinal costae. The axial area is narrow and widens only slightly at the central area. The raphe is filiform. The proximal raphe ends are slightly expanded and straight, or possess a slight bend. The distal raphe ends form hooks, deflected in the same direction.