Which of the three domains of life is most suited to life in extreme environments?

• A. Bacteria
• B. Eukarya
• C. Archaea
• D.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the three domains of life: Bacteria, Archaea, and Eukarya. Each domain has unique characteristics that allow them to thrive in different environments.
2. Recognize that Archaea are known for their ability to survive in extreme environments, such as high temperatures, high salinity, and acidic conditions. This is due to their unique cell membrane composition and metabolic pathways.
3. Consider the environments where Bacteria and Eukarya typically thrive. Bacteria are found in a wide range of environments but are not as specialized for extreme conditions as Archaea. Eukarya, which includes plants, animals, and fungi, generally require more moderate conditions.
4. Examine the structural and biochemical adaptations of Archaea that enable them to withstand extreme conditions, such as ether-linked lipids in their cell membranes, which provide stability at high temperatures.
5. Conclude that Archaea are the domain most suited to life in extreme environments due to their specialized adaptations that allow them to thrive where other life forms cannot.