These flowers were everywhere! But the other interesting thing in this photo is the soil surrounding the flowers. The soil in the desert is alive! Cyanobacteria and their by-products create a crust on the surface of the soil in the desert. They are key in reducing erosion, increasing water retention and increasing soil fertility. They generally appear anywhere there are not green plants. The soil crusts are extremely fragile and even a single foot-print has a long-lasting effect. Recovery can take up to 250 years in the desert! So stay on established roads and trails when visiting the desert. (This photo was taken from the trail.) For more information: www.soilcrust.org