Science & Nature · 3
At what temperature can Methanopyrus kandleri cells divide, setting the record for thermal life?
Answer
122°C
Methanopyrus kandleri is an extremophile archaeon that can divide at 122°C, making it the thermophile capable of surviving the highest temperature known to support microbial growth. This salt- and heat-loving archaea was discovered in deep-sea hydrothermal vents and produces methane by harvesting energy from hydrogen gas. Its proteins have evolved special structural adaptations with extended stability at extreme temperatures.
💡 Did you know?
At 122°C (252°F), Methanopyrus kandleri thrives while every other known organism would be instantly destroyed.
Other options people guess
- 90°C
- 150°C
- 180°C
Topics
- extremophiles
- marine-biology
- hydrothermal-vents
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