Which type of microorganisms adapt to very low temperatures?

Psychrophiles are microorganisms that thrive in extremely cold environments, typically at temperatures ranging from -20°C to 10°C. These organisms have adapted molecular mechanisms that allow their cellular processes to function in such low temperatures, which includes the production of enzymes that remain flexible and active in cold conditions. Their cell membranes contain higher unsaturated fatty acids, which help maintain fluidity at lower temperatures, preventing them from becoming too rigid.

In contrast, thermophiles are adapted to high temperatures, mesophiles prefer moderate temperatures typically found in human environments, and hyperthermophiles are specially evolved to grow in extreme heat, such as volcanic vents. Understanding the specific temperature preferences of these various organisms is crucial in microbiology, as it affects their ecological niches and potential applications in biotechnology.