Close up of cryptobiotic soil.

Close up of cryptobiotic soil.

Location
UtahEgypt BenchNeon Canyon
Photographer
John Hovell
Date taken

Comments

  • Fascinating stuff. Looks like miniature tufas. How did you know what it was (so that you weren't as ignorant as the cows?)

    — Margaret Hovell

  • I probably learned about crypto in Zion. Good parks have signs about it, but in general it's all over the Great Basin... not sure if it's as far south as Tucson. The Wikipedia page has some good information. Spotting crypto is a little tricky, especially if it is not as well formed as these beds were though. Stay on established paths and you won't have a problem. It usually is only an issue when you decide to go cross country. This crypto was all growing next to (but not on) a trail.

    — John Hovell