Natural History Wanderings

SF Gate reported

Living crusts produce and reinforce desert soils, laying a foundation upon which all else grows.

Scientists are now learning that biocrust plays important roles in everything from erosion control and nutrient cycling to bracing against the worst impacts of climate change. And as temperatures continue to rise, researchers are turning to these living soils as a potential tool for restoring healthy landscapes.

Read more at As the American West dries out, a secret savior emerges from the soil