Designates Aulacoseira newjerseyana as the New Jersey State Diatom.

The bill designates Aulacoseira newjerseyana as the official diatom of New Jersey. This freshwater centric diatom species, found in lakes of the Highlands ecoregion, was discovered in 2022. Aulacoseira newjerseyana is characterized by its low mantle, unevenly distributed mantle areolae, and a valve face covered by rounded areolae. The designation aims to highlight the ecological importance of diatoms and the scientists who discovered this species. Diatoms play a crucial role in aquatic ecosystems, producing oxygen and acting as indicators of water health.

Designates Aulacoseira newjerseyana as the New Jersey State Diatom.

The bill designates Aulacoseira newjerseyana as the official diatom of New Jersey. This freshwater centric diatom species, found in lakes of the Highlands ecoregion, was discovered in 2022. Aulacoseira newjerseyana is characterized by its low mantle, unevenly distributed mantle areolae, and a valve face covered by rounded areolae. The designation aims to highlight the ecological importance of diatoms and the scientists who discovered this species. Diatoms play a crucial role in aquatic ecosystems, producing oxygen and acting as indicators of water health.