My interest in the study of fossil diatoms from deposits at Oamaru, on the South Island of New Zealand was kindled and guided by the late Bernard Hartley. He was a distinguished diatomist and a dear friend and mentor.
I have been fortunate to be given some 50 samples of diatomite from 13 sites at Oamaru collected by diatomists through the 20th century. During the past 14 years, I have cleaned, searched and selected individual diatoms from this material for mounting and photography (see methods). I gratefully acknowledge the skill and dedication of Klaus Kemp in mounting them for me.
My collection now consists of 6800 individually mounted diatoms, selected to include all the species I have found in these samples. They have been photographed and named (which include some queries) and I aim to show all these species on this site when complete.
Inevitably, since I have only limited experience in this field, there will be errors among my identifications. I will welcome any corrections you may have. Finally, I hope you enjoy viewing these beautiful little jewels, and that this web site widens the understanding of Oamaru diatoms among naturalists. Who knows, it may even show new species (& ssp.) to add to the to the 700+ already recorded from this site.

Have fun, Nigel Charles

PLEASE NOTE:- THIS SITE IS STILL UNDER CONSTRUCTION.

Nigel Charles, my dear fatherly friend and mentor, passed away on January 13th, 2018. His webpage will remain in his memory. He was a true scientist and has made a great contribution to everyone with this site; amateurs as well as diatom researchers who are interested in the beauty of the Oamarus diatoms.
Anne Gleich