Consider the following statements: 1. Some microorganisms can grow in environments with temperature above the boiling point of water. 2. Some microorganisms can grow in environments with temperature below the freezing point of water. 3. Some microorganisms can grow in highly acidic environment with a pH below 3. How many of the above statements are correct?

Question

GSEasyPrelims 2023Science & Technology

Consider the following statements:

Some microorganisms can grow in environments with temperature above the boiling point of water.
Some microorganisms can grow in environments with temperature below the freezing point of water.
Some microorganisms can grow in highly acidic environment with a pH below 3.

How many of the above statements are correct?

Explanation

Statement 1 is Correct: Hyperthermophiles are microorganisms that can thrive in temperatures above 100°C (the boiling point of water). For example, Pyrolobus fumarii is an archaeon that lives in hydrothermal vents at temperatures up to 113°C.

Statement 2 is Correct: Psychrophiles (or cryophiles) are extremophilic organisms capable of growth and reproduction in cold temperatures, often ranging from -20°C to +10°C, which is below the freezing point of water (0°C).

Statement 3 is Correct: Acidophiles are microorganisms that thrive in highly acidic environments. Extreme acidophiles, such as Picrophilus oshimae, can grow optimally at pH levels below 3, with some species surviving at pH levels near 0.