In the hot deserts of Namibia, Oman, and Saudi Arabia, researchers found something intriguing in the rocks—thin, straight tubes embedded in marble and limestone. These structures may hint at ancient microbial life that flourished in extreme environments.
Scientists from Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz discovered these formations during fieldwork in Namibia. After examination, they confirmed that the tubes contained biological material. “We were taken aback because these formations clearly aren’t the result of any known geological processes,” explained Professor Cees Passchier, who first noticed them. “We can’t tell if these organisms are extinct or if they still exist somewhere."
A Closer Look at the Structures
The discovery stems from ancient marble formed through intense heat and pressure over millions of years. The tubes are incredibly small—just half a millimeter wide and can reach lengths of up to three centimeters. They often form in long bands, some stretching as much as ten meters.
Unlike patterns made by erosion from wind or water, these formations display a level of organization that suggests a biological origin. Crusts of calcrete around the tubes add to their uniqueness. Initially spotted 15 years ago in Namibia, similar formations have also emerged in Oman and Saudi Arabia, indicating a possible widespread phenomenon.
Inside these tubes, researchers found fine calcium carbonate powder instead of empty space. This suggests that the microorganisms may have had a way to extract nutrients from the rock.
Microbial Life in the Lightless Depths
In collaboration with Dr. Trudy Wassenaar, a molecular microbiology expert, the research team explored the biological aspects of these formations. They suspect the tubes were created by endolithic microorganisms—tiny beings that thrive within rocks. Bacteria, fungi, and lichens that can survive in harsh conditions exemplify this type of life.
Interestingly, these structures are likely one to two million years old, potentially from a period when the climate was more humid. Although biological traces have been found, the age of the formations means that no DNA or protein remains that could identify the organisms. “What’s exciting is that we currently don’t know what kind of endolithic microorganism created these structures,” said Passchier. “Is it something known, or an entirely new organism?”
Implications for Earth’s Carbon Cycle
While the identity of these tunnel-makers remains a mystery, their role could have significant implications. Microbial life that breaks down minerals can influence the global carbon cycle, releasing carbon into the environment. Professor Passchier emphasized the importance of recognizing this potential. “Even if we don’t know if these life forms still exist, they might play a critical role in regulating carbon levels globally.”
This underscores how vital it is to study these microorganisms further. Their influence on Earth’s climate and carbon balance may change our understanding of past and present ecological interactions. Although the story of these tiny tunnels is still unfolding, they could reveal a lot about life’s resilience under extreme conditions—and about our planet’s history.
For further reading, see the full study published in the journal Geomicrobiology Journal.
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