Adaptations of Microorganisms in Hot Environments

Introduction

• Microorganisms adapt to hot environments by developing unique mechanisms.
• Key organisms include thermophiles and hypothermophiles.

Classification of Thermophiles

• Thermophiles: Optimum growth above 80°C
  • Bacteria: Grow up to about 95°C
  • Eukarya: Grow up to about 65°C
  • Archaea: Required for temperatures above 95°C

Habitats of Thermophiles

• Found in undersea hydrothermal vents and hot springs
• Example: Prismatic pool at Yellowstone

Adaptations

Protein and Enzyme Adaptations

• Amino Acid Substitutions: Allow proper folding for heat stability
• Ionic Bonds: Increase in number between basic and acidic amino acids to stabilize structure
• Hydrophobic Interactions: Increase to resist unfolding at high temperatures
• Example Enzyme: TAC polymerase from Thermos Aquaticus, used in PCR

Membrane Adaptations

• Longer Chain Fatty Acids: For stability and functionality
• Saturated Fatty Acids: Enhance thermal stability
• Archaea Membrane: Use of phyantel and monolayer membranes to resist cell lysis and increase stability