Desert pavement is a natural surface covering of closely packed, interlocking angular or rounded rock fragments found in arid regions. It forms through the gradual removal of fine particles by wind and water, leaving behind a layer of coarser material. Desert pavements play a critical role in protecting underlying soils from erosion and are important indicators of long-term climatic stability in deserts.
Reference: McFadden, L. D., Wells, S. G., & Dohrenwend, J. C. (1987). “Influences of Quaternary Climatic Changes on Processes of Soil Development on Desert Loess Deposits of the Cima Volcanic Field, California.” Catena, 14(4), 361-389.