Biology Topic Practice

Life in the Extremes: Extremophiles

Some organisms, called extremophiles, can survive in conditions that would kill most other life forms.

Where might you find a thermophilic extremophile?

What is Life in the Extremes: Extremophiles?

"Extremophiles are organisms that are able to live in extreme environments, such as those with very high temperatures, pressures, or salt concentrations."

Question 1

What is an extremophile?

Question 2

Why are enzymes from extremophiles useful in industry?

Question 3

A bacterium living near a hot hydrothermal vent is likely to be:

Extreme Survival

Found in high temperature environments (e.g., hydrothermal vents).

Found in high salt concentrations (e.g., the Dead Sea).

Found in high pressure environments (e.g., deep ocean trenches).

Exam Tip

Most extremophiles are microorganisms, such as bacteria or archaea.

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