coc·co·lith (k k  -l th )n. A microscopic calcite skeletal plate that protects certain marine phytoplankton and in a fossilized state forms chalk and limestone deposits. |
coccolith [ˈkɒkəlɪθ]
n
(Earth Sciences / Geological Science) any of the round calcareous plates in chalk formations: formed the outer layer of unicellular plankton
[New Latin, from Greek kokkos berry + lithos stone]
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