Frustule - Frustule Formation

Frustule Formation

As the diatom prepares to separate it undergoes several processes in order to start the production of either a new hypotheca or new epitheca. Once each cell is completely separate they then have similar protection and the ability to continue frustule production.

A brief and extremely simplified version can be explained as:

1. The newly formed nucleus and the pre-existing nucleus each move to the side of the diatom where the new hypotheca will be formed.
2. A vesicle known as the silica deposition vesicle forms near the plasma membrane.
3. This forms the center of the pattern and silica deposition can continue outward from that point, till the frustule is produced.