Question

Thermus aquaticus, a bacterium, requires a temperature of \(75^{\circ} \mathrm{C}\) to \(80^{\circ} \mathrm{C}\) in order to survive. Based on this information, suggest a suitable living space for this bacterium.

Short answer

Given the bacterium Thermus aquaticus's temperature requirement (75°C to 80°C), it would likely thrive best in environments like hot springs and hydrothermal vents which often reach these high temperatures.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Thermus Aquaticus

Thermus aquaticus is a bacterium that can survive in extreme temperatures, specifically between 75°C and 80°C. This bacterium tends to be found in environments with high temperatures.

Identifying Suitable Habitats

An environment that often reaches temperatures within the range of 75°C - 80°C would be suitable. Such locations include hot springs and hydrothermal vents.

Making a Conclusion

Given the bacteria's tolerance to temperatures, it can be concluded that Thermus aquaticus would most likely thrive best in areas where such temperatures are common. Therefore, hot springs and hydrothermal vents would make suitable living spaces for this bacterium.

Key concepts

Extremophiles

When we talk about extremophiles, we're referring to organisms that do more than just survive in what most life forms would consider inhospitable conditions; they actually thrive there. These fascinating creatures have adapted to extreme environments that would be lethal to most other forms of life. For example, Thermus aquaticus falls under this category because it has evolved to live comfortably in temperatures ranging from 75°C to 80°C.

These organisms are not only of scientific interest because of their unique habitats but also for their potential uses. Many extremophiles produce enzymes that retain their functionality under extreme conditions, which can be valuable in industrial processes that require high temperatures or pressures. The discovery of Thermus aquaticus has indeed led to scientific breakthroughs, such as its enzyme, Taq polymerase, which is critical for the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique used in molecular biology.

High-Temperature Bacteria

Bacteria that can endure and flourish at high temperatures, often exceeding those of typical living organisms, are known as high-temperature bacteria or thermophiles. These bacteria, like Thermus aquaticus, have specialized proteins and membranes that remain stable and functional even at temperatures that would denature those of other organisms. Understanding these thermal adaptations is not just an academic endeavor; it can have practical applications.

For instance, the enzymes from such bacteria are applied in the biotechnology industry, where processes often occur under conditions that would inactivate less robust enzymes from mesophilic (moderate temperature) organisms. Thermal stability is a prized characteristic in many industrial processes, making the study and application of high-temperature bacteria a significant field within biotechnology.

Microbial Ecology

The field of microbial ecology examines the relationships that microorganisms have with their environment, other microorganisms, and host organisms. Within this complex interplay, various factors such as temperature, pH, and nutrient availability can significantly influence the composition and function of microbial communities.

Thermus aquaticus contributes to the microbial ecology of high-temperature environments like hot springs and hydrothermal vents by playing a role in nutrient cycling and energy flow. Such environments often possess unique chemical properties that contribute to diverse and specialized microbial communities. Understanding the ecology of these extremophiles helps researchers to not only learn about life under extreme conditions but also provides insight into the potential origins of life on Earth and the search for life on other planets.