1. living or growing within rock or stone
Usage: scientific; biology

Examples

• Endolithic bacteria can survive in extreme environments by boring into rock surfaces.
• The researchers discovered endolithic algae living several millimeters below the surface of desert rocks.
• Endolithic organisms play an important role in rock weathering processes.
• Scientists study endolithic communities to understand life in harsh conditions.
• The endolithic microbes were found thriving in the porous limestone.
• Endolithic lichens create distinctive patterns as they grow within stone substrates.