Travertine Analysis
View of Travertine Rim of La Pilita
The pool of La Pilita is over 120 meters deep and is rimmed with travertine deposits that exist to the tree line. Underwater, the walls are coated with spectacular red biomats of algae and bacteria. The water is a pleasant 31 degrees Celsius, so we make this is our campsite.
Close-up of Ledge at La Pilita
The travertine rim of La Pilita can be seen here as the underwater habitat "BOB" is recovered during a 1996 expedition. The rim is about 1.5 meters thick, and severely undercut just above the water level. It is hypothesized that the rim is growing inward radially, and eventually could seal off the deeper water from the surface, much like paint drying in a can.
Lobes at Caverna Travertina
The underwater travertine lobes in Caverna Travertina with small fish swimming in front.
Drilling Cores
Fresh Core
Travertine core fresh from the drill bit. This core was recovered from 1 meter of depth in La Pilita.
SEM of Sub-aqueous Travertine
Ostracod shell with calcite crystals that have formed secondarily after the crustacean died. Bacterial etching can be seen on the crystal facies. This sample was recovered from 10 meters of depth in La Pilita.
Polished Core
