Stromatolites

Stromatolites are unique and amazingly complex structures of layered microbial mats that accrete and lithify sand particles to form in effect "living rocks". They played a major role in the early stages of land formation on planet earth.

There are few locations where these primeval entities exist today and several Bahamian Cays have colonies. These locations include Highbourne Cay, Warderick Wells / Hog Cays, Little Darby Cay Schooner Cays, Lee Stocking Island.

On Little Darby Cay, the Darby Research Center focuses on stromatolite research in the Bahamas. An excellent summary of stromatolites and information about ongoing research by R. Pamela Reid can be found at Darby Research.


Updated: 29 Mar 13