Microorganisms that belong to the domain, archaea are also known as
The correct answer and explanation is:
Microorganisms that belong to the domain Archaea are also known as archaeans.
Archaea are one of the three main domains of life, alongside Bacteria and Eukarya. They are unicellular organisms that have distinct biochemical and genetic features setting them apart from other microorganisms. Archaea are similar in appearance to bacteria but differ significantly in their cellular structures and molecular biology. Their cell membranes contain lipids with unique chemical structures, unlike those in bacteria and eukaryotes. This structural difference is crucial for their survival in extreme environments, such as high-temperature hot springs, deep-sea vents, and hypersaline lakes.
Archaea were initially thought to be bacteria due to their similar size and shape, but further research revealed that they represent a distinct group. One of the key differences is the composition of their ribosomal RNA (rRNA), which shows a closer relationship to eukaryotes rather than bacteria. In fact, some researchers now consider archaea and eukaryotes to be more closely related to each other than either is to bacteria.
Archaea are categorized into several groups based on their environment and physiological characteristics. For example, halophiles thrive in extremely salty environments, thermophiles live in high-temperature environments, and methanogens produce methane gas and are found in environments like wetlands and the digestive systems of animals.
Due to their ability to survive in extreme conditions, archaea are of significant interest in the fields of biotechnology and medicine. Their enzymes, for instance, can be used in industrial processes that require high temperatures or extreme pH conditions, which would denature enzymes from other organisms.
Understanding archaea not only enhances our knowledge of biodiversity but also sheds light on the evolution of life on Earth, suggesting that early life forms might have resembled ancient archaean species.