• Diatom Taxonomy and Systematics: Understanding the taxonomic diversity of diatoms across the Indian subcontinent:

Diatoms are a diverse group of microalgae that are found in a wide range of aquatic environments, including freshwater, brackish water, and marine habitats. In the Indian subcontinent, diatoms have been studied in various ecosystems, including rivers, lakes, and coastal waters. Studies have shown that the taxonomic diversity of diatoms in the Indian subcontinent is relatively high. Under this theme, we explore various aquatic and semi-aquatic habitats for documenting the diatom diversity and distribution.

• Diatoms for Environmental Monitoring: Application of diatoms for monitoring river and lake environment.

Diatoms are commonly used as indicators of water quality and environmental conditions in rivers and lakes. Their presence, abundance, and species composition can provide information about the physical and chemical characteristics of the water as well as the overall health of the ecosystem. Our work focuses on the application of diatoms as a biomonitoring tool in the lakes and rivers of Peninsular India. We are also in the process of developing region-wise monitoring protocols for long-term monitoring with the state agencies.

• Diatoms and Climate Change: Using diatoms as a paleoenvironmental indicator of Pleistocene to Anthropocene.

Diatoms are widely used as a paleoenvironmental indicator, particularly in studying climate change over time. The fossilized remains of diatoms in sediment cores can provide valuable information about past environmental conditions, including changes in temperature, precipitation, and water chemistry. By analyzing the species composition and abundance of diatoms in sediment cores, we attempt to reconstruct past conditions in the environment and infer how these conditions have changed over time. We are reconstructing the environmental conditions of Myristica swamps in the Western Ghats using the past and present structure of the diatom community.

• Diatom Biofuel: Deciphering the lipids production capacity of various groups of diatoms.

Diatoms are considered a potential source of biofuel due to their ability to produce large amounts of lipids. Lipids are a type of organic compound that can be converted into biofuels such as biodiesel. The lipid production capacity of diatoms is influenced by various factors, including the species, growth conditions, and the availability of nutrients. We assess the lipid production capacity of various species of diatoms and its application in biofuel production.

• Diatoms in Archaeology

In archaeology, diatoms have been used to reconstruct past environments, including changes in climate, land use, and human activity. The fossilized remains of diatoms in archaeological sites can provide information about past environmental conditions, including changes in temperature, precipitation, and water chemistry. We use diatoms to reconstruct the environmental conditions in various archaeological sites across the state of Tamil Nadu in collaboration with state archaeological department.

• Environmental Education using diatoms: Diatoms based environmental awareness programs

Diatoms-based environmental education programs designed jointly with Prof. Shigeki Mayama are used to teach the students and teachers about the diversity and importance of aquatic ecosystems, and the impacts of human activities on these ecosystems. SimRiver (Simulated River), A diatom-based environmental awareness program, aims to raise awareness about the importance of protecting aquatic ecosystems and can inspire students to take action to protect these important habitats.