This area of Porcelain Basin is stark and barren, nearly void of plant life. Acidic and low alkaline water is responsible for creating this unique environment. Sulfur brought to the surface oxidizes to form sulfuric acid, creating an acidic environment hostile to plant life. The springs have deposited a thin layer of porcelain-like silica, stained yellow and orange by sulfur and iron oxides. The crust is fragile and new springs are constantly forming and breaking through. Old vents from extinct springs become drains for new springs and are quickly sealed over by new deposits.
