Archaea, like bacteria, are found in a variety of different niches. Thermophilic (heat-loving) archaea live in the deep ocean near hydrothermal vents, in volcanic hot springs like those found in Yellowstone National Park and all over Iceland. Halophilic (salt loving) archaeae live in highly salty bodies of water like the Dead Sea and Great Salt Lake. Methanogenic (methane producing) archaea live in anaerobic environment such as the mud in swamps and other underground areas where there is little oxygen.
But there are also groups like the Thaumarchaea, a newer group that live under more normal conditions and tend to break down minerals for energy.
Archaea, like bacteria, are found in a variety of different niches. Thermophilic (heat-loving) archaea live in the deep ocean near hydrothermal vents, in volcanic hot springs like those found in Yellowstone National Park and all over Iceland. Halophilic (salt loving) archaeae live in highly salty bodies of water like the Dead Sea and Great Salt Lake. Methanogenic (methane producing) archaea live in anaerobic environment such as the mud in swamps and other underground areas where there is little oxygen.
But there are also groups like the Thaumarchaea, a newer group that live under more normal conditions and tend to break down minerals for energy.