ScienceJune 30, 2026
caliche
/kəˈliːtʃeɪ/
Definition
A layer of hardened, naturally occurring mineral deposits, typically calcium carbonate, found in the subsoil of arid regions.
Etymology
The word originates from the Spanish term 'caliche,' which refers to lime or pebble. It entered English through its usage in the southwestern United States to describe the crusty, mineral-heavy soil formations characteristic of desert environments.
In the news
In the article, caliche is identified as a significant underground storage site for inorganic carbon in desert landscapes. Researchers are studying these deposits to better understand their role in the global carbon cycle.
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Read the full article ↗Caltech