UPSC Prelims 2023 · Question 28 of 97

UPSC Prelims 2023 question on Extremophile Microorganisms

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?

  1. Only one
  2. Only two
  3. All three
  4. None
Show answer

Answer: C. All three

Verdict

All three statements are correct → Option (c) All three.

Statement by statement

Statement 1 – CORRECT: Pyrolobus fumarii, an archaeon living at 113°C in Atlantic hydrothermal vents. Pyrococcus furiosus, an archaeon which thrives at 100°C, was first discovered in Italy near a volcanic vent.

Statement 2 – CORRECT: Psychrophiles or cryophiles are extremophilic organisms capable of growth and reproduction in low temperatures, ranging from −20°C (−4°F) to 20°C (68°F).

Statement 3 – CORRECT: Acidophiles are microorganisms that show optimal growth in highly acidic environments. 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.

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