microbial mats

Microbial mats are thick layers of microorganisms, primarily bacteria and archaea, that grow on surfaces in aquatic environments or moist soils. These mats often appear as colorful and textured films, thriving in places like hot springs, salt flats, and tidal pools. They play a vital role in ecosystems by contributing to nutrient cycling, supporting food webs, and influencing the chemical composition of their environment. Microbial mats are also of great interest to scientists studying ancient life on Earth, as they resemble the earliest forms of life that existed billions of years ago.