Description These rocky formations, called stromatolites, are made by photosynthetic cyanobacteria and other microorganisms. The microbes secrete compounds that bind sediment grains, creating a fine-layered mineral “microfabric.” Stromatolites were among the earliest life on Earth, and massive formations dominated shorelines starting about 3.5 billion years ago. About 1 billion years ago, their populations mysteriously plummeted; now they exist in only a few locations, like this one in Shark Bay, Australia. WHOI scientists Joan Bernhard and Virginia Edgcomb have investigated that decline, which occurred as more complex life forms were emerging. (Photo by Virginia Edgcomb, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution) Author Virginia Edgcomb, Woods Hole Oceanographic InstitutionJPG file - 541.12 kB - 700 x 482 pixels
Extra information Camera Maker: Nikon Corporation Camera Model: NIKON D80 Original Time Taken: 2011:06:16 22:27:55 Time Digitized: 2011:06:16 22:27:55 Shutter Speed: 1/320 sec Aperture: f/9 ISO Sensitivity: 200 Exposure Compensation: 0 EV Metering Mode: Pattern Flash Fired: No Flash Original Width: 700 pixels Original Height: 482 pixels Orientation: 1: Normal (0 deg) Contrast Setting: 2 Focal Length: 17 mm Focal Length Equivalent in 35mm Film: 25
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