The marine stromatolites found in Hamelin Pool are considered to be the best example of their kind in the world.
The tepid, shallow waters of Hamelin Pool support the growth of cyanobacteria, which is the simplest single-celled life form known.
Stromatolites are rock-like structures that are made up of cyanobacteria and other microscopic organisms that flourish in the unique physical and chemical environment of Hamelin Pool.
Stromatolites grow in Hamelin Pool because of the extreme salinity of the seawater, the limited circulation of the water, and the incidence of calcium carbonate.
The stromatolites at Hamelin Pool have gained international recognition and are considered to be the best and most extensive examples of living marine stromatolites in the world.
The Shark Bay area was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1991 and the presence of the stromatolites has contributed to the outstanding natural value of the area.
The unique stromatolites are best viewed via the purpose built jetty at Hamelin Pool.
Location: Hamelin Pool is located within the Shark Bay Heritage Precinct, which is 700 kilometres north of the city of Perth.
UNESCO World Heritage
Shark Bay World Heritage Site
Australia’s Coral Coast
The Shark Bay World Heritage Discovery Centre