Helictoglossa
The internal, distal termination of the raphe is termed the helictoglossa. The structure is developed in many raphid diatoms, but not all. The helictoglossa is a lip-like structure. In many species, helictoglossae are distinguishable in the light microscope in valve view by optical dissection (focusing through many narrow, optical planes). The structure may also be visible in girdle view, as a thickened lip of silica.
Alternative Term
terminal nodule
Terminal nodule is a more general term than helictoglossa, because it has been used to refer to the thicking of silica at the apices of raphid diatoms rather than a specific structure.
infundibulum
Some of the older literature uses the term infundibulum to describe the helictoglossa.
polar nodule
Polar nodule is also a general term, like terminal nodule.
Image Credit: Paula Furey
This image is a scanning electron micrograph of the internal distal valve of Eunotia macroglossa, showing the helictoglossa positioned on the valve mantle.
Image Credit: Pat Kociolek
Light micrograph of the footpole of Gomphoneis olivaceum. The helictoglossae is somewhat removed from the valve apex.
Image Credit: Marina Potapova
SEM of the footpole of Gomphoneis geitleri, showing the internal view. The distal raphe terminates in the raised, and thickened helictoglossa.