Search for stomatolite-like structures in the martian environment

Assuming that exchanges of forms of life could have occurred between Mars and Earth, we investigate where and how a future mission could detect stromatolite-like structures similar to the terrestrial ones. In the terrestrial fossil record, the presence of laminated structures may derive from biologic processes such as those originating stromatolites. Stromatolites are finely laminated, lithified microbial structures that may preserve traces of microorganisms (primarily prokaryotes) widespread in suitable aquatic habitats. We propose to select the sites where such laminated Mars rocks could exist, by an appropriate radar system.