1. Microscopic, disc-shaped calcium carbonate plates produced by certain marine algae (coccolithophores); commonly found in sediments and chalk deposits.
Usage: plural form; singular is coccolith; technical/scientific term; geology and marine biology

Examples

• Coccoliths are abundant in deep-sea sediments and provide valuable information about past ocean conditions.
• The white cliffs of Dover are composed largely of coccoliths from ancient marine organisms.
• Scientists study coccoliths to understand the history of Earth's climate and oceans.
• Under an electron microscope, coccoliths display intricate geometric patterns.
• Coccoliths accumulate on the ocean floor and form an important part of marine sediment.