Siliceous Speleothems and Associated Microbe-Mineral Interactions from Ana Heva Lava Tube in Easter Island (Chile)

Abstract

Coralloid-type speleothems were recorded on the ceiling of the Ana Heva lava tube in Easter Island (Chile). These speleothems were morphologically, geochemically and mineralogically characterized using a wide variety of microscopy and analytical techniques. They consist dominantly of amorphous Mg silicate and opal-A. Field emission scanning electron microscopy revealed a variety of filamentous and bacillary bacteria on the surface of the Ana Heva coralloid speleothems, including silicified filamentous microorganisms. Among them, intriguing reticulated filaments resemble those filaments documented earlier in limestone caves and lava tubes. The identification of silicified microorganisms on the coralloid speleothems from the Ana Heva lava tube suggests a possible role of these microorganisms in silica deposition. © 2014 Copyright Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.