The use of microbiotic crusts as biomarkers for ponding, subsurface flow and soil moisture content and duration

► Variable types of microbiotic crusts (MCs) characterize habitats in the Negev. ► The crusts indicated habitats with variable water availability. ► A good correlation characterizes the MC chlorophyll and wetness duration. ► Crusts may serve as biomarkers for surfaces subjected to runon and subsurface flow. ► Crusts may serve as biomarkers for the 0-40 cm soil moisture content and duration.