Thermophiles at Yellowstone

When I went to Yellowstone with a friend in July, 2007, I wanted to see Old Faithful, among other known destinations in the park. Little did I know that Old Faithful would not be the most exciting site in that part of the park. My friend and I covered more than a few miles traversing the boardwalk that wraps around numerous geysers and several pools of hot water filled with incredible colors. These colors are formed by a high concentration of thermophiles (literally, "temperature lovers"), living organisms that thrive in very hot temperatures. Along a stretch of boardwalk not far from Old Faithful, I came upon this wonderful section of a hot water pool containing a variety of greens and yellows. I just had to stoop and gaze at this beautiful site, and I just had to try to capture an image of it with my camera. I really like this picture because it still leaves me wondering what it is, even though I know. I look at it and think of both a bird's eye view of a swampy river and of a microscopic view of some unusual organisms. This photo reminds me to stop and look closely at whatever might be at my feet.