Acidophile
Acidophile
Acidophile (pronounced as /ˈæsɪdəʊfaɪl/) is an organism that thrives in highly acidic environments with a pH typically below 3.
Etymology
The term "Acidophile" is derived from Latin Acidus meaning "sour" and Greek philos meaning "loving".
Definition
An Acidophile is a type of extremophile that can survive and even thrive under highly acidic conditions. These organisms can be found in various environments such as sulfuric hot springs, acidic mines, and volcanic vents.
Types of Acidophiles
There are three main types of acidophiles:
- Obligate Acidophiles: These organisms require an acidic environment to survive. They cannot grow at pH levels above 5.
- Facultative Acidophiles: These organisms can tolerate acidic conditions, but they can also survive in neutral or alkaline environments.
- Acid-tolerant Organisms: These organisms can survive in acidic conditions, but they do not necessarily prefer them.
Related Terms
- Extremophile: An organism that thrives in physically or geochemically extreme conditions that are detrimental to most life on Earth.
- Alkaliphile: An organism that thrives in environments with high pH levels, typically above 9.
- Halophile: An organism that thrives in environments with high salt concentrations.
- Thermophile: An organism that thrives at relatively high temperatures, between 60 and 80 °C (140 and 176 °F).
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Acidophile
- Wikipedia's article - Acidophile
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