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Methanopyrus kandleri (Strain 116)
- Max Growth Temperature (°C)
- 122
- Habitat
- Deep-sea hydrothermal vent
Top 10Updated 2026年3月15日
Top 10 Thermophilic Extremophiles in Nature
This ranking highlights the extremophilic microorganisms with the highest growth temperature limits in nature. Ranked by their maximum growth temperature (Tmax) observed in laboratory conditions, these organisms reveal profound insights into biological adaptation under extreme heat and provide critical clues for astrobiology research.
Top 3
- 1Methanopyrus kandleri (Strain 116)
Interesting Facts & Summary
The Limits of Life: Inhabitants of the Deep Sea
These microbes are not just 'heat-resistant'; they are obligate thermophiles, meaning they cannot survive at ambient temperatures.
- Key Fact: The top-ranked Methanopyrus kandleri strain 116 reproduces at 122°C, setting the current world record for life at high temperatures.
- Survival Mechanisms: To survive such heat, their protein structures have evolved highly hydrophobic cores, and their DNA utilizes specialized reverse gyrase to prevent denaturation.
| Rank | Name | Max Growth Temperature (°C) | Habitat |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Methanopyrus kandleri (Strain 116) | 122 | Deep-sea hydrothermal vent |
| 2 | Geogemma barossii (Strain 121) | 121 | Pacific deep-sea vent |
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