Taking the long view: lacustrine, fluvial, and marine-type stromatolites of the Cuatro Ciénegas Basin with fundamentally different methods of formation and preservation potential

Authors: Barbara M. Winsborough

Year: 2008 (xl)

Abstract

One of the unique and remarkable aspects of the lakes and streams in the Cuatro Ciénegas basin is the simultaneous growth of five different kinds of stromatolites, including one type formed primarily by the trapping and binding of carbonate grains, with secondary cementation, in the manner typical of marine stromatolites. Features common to all of these different kinds stromatolites are that they are lithified, laminated, organo-sedimentary structures built by microbial communities. Differences among the various types can be ascribed to velocity and directionality of water current, water level consistency, substrate availability, water chemistry and depth. Characteristics that vary among the different forms are morphology, size, growth rate, microbial mat thickness, principal photosynthetic organisms, impacts of fish and invertebrate grazers, type of lamination, degree of cementation, fragility and preservation potential.