Virtual Field Trip to the Florida Keys

Upper Keys: Location 6 - Windley Key

Windley Key Fossil Reef State Geological Site.

The laminated, light-coloured material in the centre of the photo is a caliche or calcrete crust. It is composed mainly of micrite, and drapes an irregular erosion surface formed by dissolution of the top of the reef limestones.

Behind may be seen trees and plants of the tropical hardwood hammock which grows on the elevated dry area provided by the limestone.

What does a caliche represent? Does it indicate a change in environment? What could have caused this change? Think about these questions, then click on the button to the left to check your answers.

Caliche links