Diktytaxitic is a microscopic texture found primarily in certain basalts, characterized by a network of tiny, angular voids bounded by intersecting plagioclase feldspar laths. These micro-vesicles form as gas escapes from a highly fluid lava while the crystal framework is already solidifying. It makes the rock highly porous despite its crystalline structure.
Heard on the job
The core sample from the upper flow shows a highly diktytaxitic texture, which explains the high permeability in this zone.
Insider tip
Geologists use this texture to identify highly fluid, volatile-rich lava flows, particularly in flood basalt provinces.