Several species of bacteria and archaea live in hot springs and deep sea thermal vents where the water temperature exceeds 90°C (194°F).Which of the following evolutionary adaptations would you expect to find in the cell membranes of these thermophilic organisms?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Thermophilic organisms living in hot environments have adapted to their extreme conditions by incorporating more saturated fatty acids into their cell membranes. Saturated fatty acids have straight tails that can pack tightly together, making the membrane more stable and less likely to melt at high temperatures.

Several Species of Bacteria and Archaea Live in Hot Springs