Applications of Extremophiles

Abstract

Extremophiles are organisms that can survive in harsh environmental conditions such as varying ranges of temperature, pH, high levels of salinity, extreme pressure and high doses of radiation. They are distributed throughout the Earth’s surface and water bodies. They are classified on the basis of their habitats and extreme conditions they inhabit, like oligotrophs, thermophiles, psychrophiles, halophiles, acidophiles, alkaliphiles, piezophiles and radiophiles. Extremophiles have a huge impact on human life. Enzymes obtained from them are nowadays used in industrial microbiology, agriculture, pharmaceuticals and medical diagnostics, bioremediation, and in many more fields. With enormous commercial benefits and advanced scientific techniques, researchers are investigating extremophiles for a better understanding of their metabolism, and survival strategies for newer applications. This chapter focuses on applications of different types of extremophiles in industry, scientific research, medical science, and other fields.

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