Tintinnid Dictyocysta Mitra Earrings

Tintinnids are microzooplankton ciliates, feeding on photosynthetic algae and bacteria while they themselves are food for larger creatures like copepods and fish. These single-celled eukaryotes are distinguished by their beautiful loricas (shells) which are bell-shaped and perforated in unusual patterns. Within the lorica is a mass of cilia surrounding the mouth. The cilia not only propel the Tintinnid but also sweep food into its mouth. Tintinnids have been noted in the fossil record since the Cretaceous period and are still an abundant and important component of marine and freshwater environments today.

To see a related organism, take a look at these Tintinnid Dictyocysta lepida Earrings

Earrings do not ship from Shapeways with earring hooks. You will need to purchase and attach them yourself. The earrings are 1.3 cm below the loop and 0.8 cm wide. Each earring weighs approximately 1.8 g.