Mature Biocrust (IMAGE)

U.S. Geological Survey

Mature Biocrust

Caption

On the Colorado Plateau, mature biocrusts are bumpy and dark-colored due to the presence of lichens, mosses, and high densities of cyanobacteria and other organisms. These organisms perform critical functions, such as fertilizing soils and increasing soil stability, therefore reducing dust.

Credit

Jennifer LaVista, USGS Public domain

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