Lake Thetis, Lake in Western Australia, Australia
Lake Thetis is a small saltwater lake in Western Australia, near the coastal town of Cervantes, known for its rare thrombolites. These chunky, rock-like formations rise out of the shallow water and look similar to small coral reefs.
The thrombolites in Lake Thetis began forming thousands of years ago as tiny microorganisms deposited calcium carbonate layer by layer. Structures like these are among the oldest forms of life on Earth and existed long before most animals appeared.
The thrombolites at Lake Thetis are not fossils but living microbial communities that are still growing today. Visitors can observe them from a wooden boardwalk that runs along the shore, keeping a respectful distance from the formations.
The lake is open year-round, but visiting in the cooler months makes walking around more comfortable, as summers in Western Australia can get very hot. Bring enough water and sun protection, as there is little shade along the shore.
The thrombolites at Lake Thetis are among the few living examples of these structures found inland anywhere in the world. The lake's water is saltier than the ocean, which favors the microorganisms but keeps most other life away.
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