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

Easy

Science & Technology

Prelims 2023

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?

Select an option to attempt

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Pyrolobus fumarii, an archaeon living at 113 °C in Atlantic hydrothermal vents.Pyrococcus furiosus, an archaeon which thrives at 100 °C, first discovered in Italy near a volcanic vent.
Statement 2 is correct: Psychrophiles or cryophiles (adj. psychrophilic or cryophilic) are extremophilic organisms that are capable of growth and reproduction in low temperatures, ranging from 20 °C to 20 °C.
Statement 3 is correct: Acidophiles are microorganisms that show optimal growth in highly acidic environments. These are of two types. The extreme acidophiles dwell in environments with a pH value < 3, and moderate acidophiles grow optimally in conditions having pH values ranging between 3 and 5.