[Adaptation of organisms to extreme conditions of deep-sea hydrothermal vents]

C R Biol. 2006 Jul;329(7):527-40. doi: 10.1016/j.crvi.2006.02.001. Epub 2006 Mar 29.
[Article in French]

Abstract

The deep-sea hydrothermal vents are located along the volcanic ridges and are characterized by extreme conditions such as unique physical properties (temperature, pression), chemical toxicity, and absence of photosynthesis. However, life exists in these particular environments. The primary producers of energy and organic molecules in these biotopes are chimiolithoautotrophic bacteria. Many animals species live in intimate and complex symbiosis with these sulfo-oxidizing and methanogene bacteria. These symbioses imply a strategy of nutrition and a specific metabolic organization involving numerous interactions and metabolic exchanges, between partners. The organisms of these ecosystems have developed different adaptive strategies. In these environments many microorganisms are adapted to high temperatures. Moreover to survive in these environments, living organisms have developed various strategies to protect themselves against toxic molecules such as H2S and heavy metals.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Acclimatization*
  • Adaptation, Physiological
  • Adenosine Triphosphate / metabolism
  • Animals
  • Annelida / physiology
  • Atlantic Ocean
  • Bacterial Physiological Phenomena
  • Carbon / metabolism
  • Ecosystem
  • Food Chain
  • Geological Phenomena
  • Geology
  • Metals, Heavy / toxicity
  • Nitrogen Fixation
  • Pacific Ocean
  • Seawater*
  • Temperature
  • Volcanic Eruptions*
  • Water Microbiology

Substances

  • Metals, Heavy
  • Carbon
  • Adenosine Triphosphate