Select the incorrect statement from the following.

Options

A. Diatoms are microscopic and float passively in water.
B. 'Diatomaceous earth' is formed by the cell wall of diatoms , which got deposited in ocean beds.
C. Diatoms are chief producers in the oceans.
D. The wall of diatoms are easily destructible

Answer

To solve the question of identifying the incorrect statement about diatoms, we will analyze each statement provided.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Diatoms**:
- Diatoms are a type of algae characterized by their unique cell walls made of silica. They are microscopic and play a significant role in aquatic ecosystems.

2. **Evaluating the Statements**:
- **Statement 1**: "Diatoms are microscopic and float passively in the water."
- This statement is **true**. Diatoms are indeed microscopic and they float in water due to their buoyancy.

- **Statement 2**: "Diatomaceous earth is formed by the cell wall of diatoms which got deposited in the ocean beds."
- This statement is also **true**. Diatomaceous earth is formed from the accumulated silica cell walls of dead diatoms that settle on the ocean floor.

- **Statement 3**: "Diatoms are chief producers in the ocean."
- This statement is **true**. Diatoms are primary producers in marine environments, contributing significantly to the ocean's food web.

- **Statement 4**: "The walls of diatoms are easily destructible."
- This statement is **false**. The cell walls of diatoms are made of silica and are not easily destructible; they are quite durable and can take millions of years to decompose.

3. **Conclusion**:
- The incorrect statement among the options provided is the last one: "The walls of diatoms are easily destructible."

### Final Answer:
The incorrect statement is: "The walls of diatoms are easily destructible."

---