File:Hyperthermophiles.jpg

Archaea - hyperthermophiles

Methane-matabolizing Archaea (round cells) bound portions of carbonate chimney structures adjacent to volatile-rich, high-pH hydrothermal fluids in the Lost City hydrothermal vent field, Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Along the exterior of the structures filamentous bacteria (upper picture) are the predominant organisms.

Source: NASA

http://nai.arc.nasa.gov/team/index.cfm?page=projectreports&teamID=14&year=7&projectID=1082