Iridescent coating is not a true mineral but a nanomineral, associated iron oxides (though not exclusively) such as this example of Turgite. The nano-crystal array of the fine iridescent coating layer diffracts and scatters beams of light, producing a rainbow effect.
These pom-pom-like formations (1-2cm across) on Ruby Saltbush are galls created by a type of Diptera Midge infestation which is one of several species hosted by specific chenopods. These galls impede flowering and fruiting of the plant, instead hosting the Gall Midge which lays eggs into the new flower bud. Larvae then feed within the gall, the remains of which can be seen below.
Mite husks on Iga tree (Capparis Mitchellii).
The Iga tree (Capparis Mitchellii) is seen flowering in the northern Flinders Ranges and Gammon Ranges in summer. The Iga a food source for the White Caper Butterfly larvae.
A member of the Capparaceae family, the flowers are among the largest and showiest seen in the area. Budding is profuse and staggered through the flowering season.
Stamens (male) and stigma (female) developing in the bud (magnification 20x).
A stigma emerges from an opening bud.
Petals open to a dazzling array of stamens (approximately 50mm long) with the stigma held high, holding their form for sometimes only a single day in the summer heat.
Threadlike filamentous green algae growing in the shallows of Copley Retention Dam. These soft strands consist of a chain of cells, giving a thread-like appearance. Oxygen production as a by-product of underwater photosynthesis creates buoyancy, causing the strands to incline toward the surface.
Sand from the red dunes in the plains to the west of Wilpena Pound, predominately hematite stained silica. Magnification 20x.
The hematite and magnetite rich magnetic sand of Yudnamutana.
Magnification 20x.
Malachite pseudomorph after azurite crystals.
Goethite replacement of pyrite crystals.
Continue reading “Goethite pseudomorph after pyrite: Copley”
