Benthic Diatoms Differ from Their Planktonic Relatives In

Question

Benthic diatoms differ from their planktonic relatives in
A) Being exclusively heterotrophic
B) Living in chains of cells only
C) Being usually bilaterally symmetrical
D) Living only in estuaries

Accepted Answer

Benthic diatoms are often bilaterally symmetrical, which helps them live attached to surfaces or in sediments, contrasting with many planktonic diatoms that exhibit radial symmetry and float freely in water columns.