Acidophile
Definition
An acidophile is a microorganism that thrives in acidic environments, typically with a pH below 5. These organisms have adapted mechanisms to maintain stability and functionality in low pH conditions.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- Acidophiles can be found in environments such as sulfuric hot springs and acidic mine drainage.
- They often possess specialized proton pumps and enzymes that function optimally at low pH levels.
- Some acidophiles can produce acids as metabolic byproducts, contributing to their environment's acidity.
- Examples of acidophiles include certain species of bacteria, archaea, and fungi.
- Understanding the role of acidophiles is crucial in bioremediation processes and industrial applications like bioleaching.
Review Questions
- What environmental conditions do acidophiles thrive in?
- How do acidophiles maintain cellular stability in acidic environments?
- Name an application where understanding acidophiles is beneficial.
"Acidophile" appears in:
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Related terms
Alkaliphile: A microorganism that thrives in alkaline environments with a pH above 9.
Neutrophile: A microorganism that prefers neutral pH environments around pH 7.
Extremophile: An organism that thrives in extreme environmental conditions, such as high salinity, temperature, or acidity.
