Tinaja

A tinaja [tiˈnaxa] is a surface pocket (depression) formed in bedrock that occurs below waterfalls, that is carved out by spring flow or seepage,^[1] or that is caused by sand and gravel scouring in intermittent streams (arroyos).^[2][3] Tinajas are an important source of surface water storage in arid environments.^[2][4]

Tinajas in Lincoln County, Nevada

These relatively rare landforms are important ecologically, because they support unique plant communities and provide important services to terrestrial wildlife.^[5]

The term originates in Spain, being Spanish for "clay jar", and is used in the American Southwest.

Examples

• The Tinajas Altas ("high tinajas") in southern Arizona.
• Several in El Pinacate y Gran Desierto de Altar Biosphere Reserve, Sonora, Mexico.
• Las Tinajas de Los Indios, California
• Las Tinajas, Zinapécuaro, Mexico
• San Estaban Dam on Alamito Creek at the tinaja in Presidio County, Texas
• Seven Sacred Pools, Sedona, Arizona