Extremophiles
Some variations make organisms adapted for extreme environments which kill other species. These are known as extremophiles, meaning “extreme lovers”.
Radioresistant
These organisms can be found in toxic waste and have variations that help them to survive nuclear radiation zones.
Hyperthermophiles
These organisms are found in the extreme heat and have optimal growth rates above 80oC. They can be found in volcanic vents.
Piezophiles
These organisms have optimal growth at high pressures and can be found in deep sea vents that would crush other organisms.
Cryophiles
These organisms are found in the extreme cold and have optimal growth rates below 15oC. They can be found in the polar ice caps.