Stromatolites: Layered sedimentary formations created by the activity of microorganisms, particularly cyanobacteria. Extracellular Polymeric Substances (EPS): A mixture of organic compounds ...

For example, cyanobacteria formed large structures called stromatolites in the oceans of early Earth. Scientists have found fossil stromatolites that date back to 3.48 billion years ago.

"Our conclusions provide a clue for their evolution; microbialites and stromatolites are the oldest ... through and eat the ...