What is an extremophile?

An extremophile is any life form that can survive in extreme environments. The name extremophile means “extreme lover”. These animals thrive in environments that life shouldn’t be possible.

There are 8 main types:

1. Acidophile, for toxicity.
2. Alkaphile, for PH, or acid.
3. Thermophile, for extreme heat.
4. Psychrophile, for extremely cold temperatures.
5. Halophile, for extremely high alkalinity (salt).
6. Barophile, for extreme pressure.
7. Radiophile, for radiation.
8. Xerophile, for extreme dryness.

Every extremophile falls into at least one of these categories and normally multiple. Most extremophiles are fungi or bacteria, but can be micro-organisms or even small animals. Extremophiles have to adapt physically and behaviourally. This means some create a mini and sustainable ecosystem that stays inside the extremophile. 

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