Abstract
Scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive x-ray analyses of desert varnish reveal that microorganisms concentrate ambient manganese that becomes greatly enhanced in brown to black varnish. Specific characteristics of desert varnish and of varnish bacteria support a microbial origin for manganese-rich films. Varnish microbes can be cultured and produce laboratory manganese films. Accordingly, natural desert varnish and also manganese-rich rock varnishes in nondesert environments appear to be a product of microbial activity.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 1245-1247 |
Number of pages | 3 |
Journal | Science |
Volume | 213 |
Issue number | 4513 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 1981 |
Externally published | Yes |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General