For which type of environments is chemosynthesis particularly useful?

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $4.99 payment

Prepare for the UCF BSC1005 Biological Principles Exam with our helpful quizzes. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions for effective studying. Familiarize yourself with exam content and format to ensure success!

Chemosynthesis is particularly useful in deep-sea environments, where sunlight is not available for photosynthesis. In these dark environments, organisms rely on chemosynthesis to convert inorganic compounds, such as hydrogen sulfide or methane, into organic matter. This process is carried out by certain bacteria and archaea that obtain energy from the oxidation of these inorganic molecules.

In deep-sea hydrothermal vent ecosystems, for instance, chemosynthetic bacteria form the base of the food web, supporting a variety of life forms, including tube worms and other organisms that depend on these bacteria for sustenance. This method of energy production allows life to thrive in conditions that would be inhospitable for organisms relying solely on sunlight.