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Thermomicrobia facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

The Thermomicrobia is a special group of bacteria that love heat! They are called "thermophilic," which means "heat-loving." These tiny living things are also known as green non-sulfur bacteria.

This group of bacteria was first identified based on two main types: Thermomicrobium roseum and Sphaerobacter thermophilus. These bacteria need oxygen to live, which means they are "aerobic." They also get their energy from eating other organic (living or once-living) things, much like how fungi get their food.


Quick facts for kids
Thermomicrobia
Scientific classification
Domain:
Phylum:
Class:
Thermomicrobia

Garrity and & Holt, 2002 emend. Hugenholtz & Stackebrandt, 2004
Orders

Thermobaculum(genus)
Thermorudis(genus)
Sphaerobacterales
Thermomicrobiales

What Are Thermomicrobia?

Thermomicrobia are a unique type of microorganism. They are part of the Chloroflexi phylum, which is a big group of bacteria. What makes them special is their ability to thrive in very hot places. Most living things would not survive such high temperatures.

Where Do Thermomicrobia Live?

Because they are "heat-loving," you can find Thermomicrobia in places that are naturally very hot. This includes hot springs, deep-sea vents, and even some industrial environments. These extreme places are often called "extremophile" habitats.

How Do Thermomicrobia Get Energy?

Thermomicrobia are "chemoorganotrophic." This is a fancy word that means they get their energy from breaking down organic compounds. Think of it like us eating food to get energy. They use chemicals from their surroundings to grow and live. They also need oxygen to do this, just like many other living things.

Why Are Thermomicrobia Special?

These bacteria are important for scientists studying life in extreme conditions. They show us that life can exist in places we might not expect. Their unique way of getting energy and surviving heat makes them very interesting to learn about. They help us understand how life might have started on Earth or even on other planets.


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