Sandstone Domes - famous banded, beehive-shaped
Sandstone Domes - famous banded, beehive-shaped domes, the world's most exceptional example of cone karst formations, in late evening light. Bungle Bungle National Park, Purnululu National Park, Western Australia, Australia. The domes are made of sandstone deposited about 360 million years ago. Erosion by creeks; rivers and weathering in the past 20 million years has carved out these domes; along with spectacular chasms and gorges; creating a surreal landscapes. The domes striking orange and grey bands are caused by the presence or absence of cyanobacteria. Dark bands indicate the presence of the cyanobacteria which grows on layers of sandstone where moisture accumulates. The orange bands are oxidised iron compounds that have dried out too quickly for the cyanobacteria to grow. In 2003 the national park was World Heritage listed for two main features: the area's incredible natural beauty and ists outstanding geological value
