The X-philes: microorganisms at the extremes
http://rucus.ru.ac.za/~wolfman/Essays/philes.html

Richard Johnson, Rhodes University


This personal website of Richard Johnson, Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Rhodes University , gives a detailed overview of the field of extremophile research. Topics covered include taxonomy and origins of extremophilic microorganisms, physiological and molecular adaptations to extreme environments, biotechnological applications of extremophiles, and the possibility of extra-terrestrial life based on evidence from extremophilic adaptation. The site also includes a table displaying extremophiles, their products, and the product use in biotechnology and industry.


Subject: Biology:Evolution, Ecology:Metabolism, Biology:Diversity, Molecular Biology, Microbiology:Methods of Microbiology , Biology:Microbiology, Astrobiology
Resource Type: Scientific Resources:Bibliography, Overview/Reference Work
Grade Level: College Upper (15-16), General Public, College Lower (13-14), High School (9-12)
Extreme Environments: Hypersaline, Extremely Hot, High Pressure, Extremely Cold, Alkaline, AcidicKeywords: small subunit ribosomal RNA, polymerase chain reaction, extremozymes, Archaea, Bacteria, geothermal features, Yellowstone National Park