What is the name of the unique microorganism that lives a mile below the ground in the Mponeng gold mine and how does it gain energy for life?

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Question #149325. Asked by BigTriviaDawg.
Last updated May 10 2023.
Originally posted May 10 2023 7:58 PM.

psnz

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psnz

4 year member
752 replies avatar

Answer has 9 votes.

Currently voted the best answer.

The bacterium "Desulforudis audaxviator" has been described as

one of the most peculiar ecosystems ever discovered.

https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg24232291-800-zombieland-the-vast-world-of-hidden-microbes-miles-beneath-your-feet/

It is the world's only known single-species ecosystem and is found around 2.8 km (1.7 mi) below the surface. There, it gets its energy from the hot water found at that depth.

May 10 2023, 8:06 PM

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Answer 1

hypatia415
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hypatia415
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Answer has 0 votes.

psnz, Your first link has a paywall.

May 10 2023, 9:05 PM

Answer 2

psnz

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psnz

4 year member
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Answer has 0 votes.

Alternative link:

May 10 2023, 11:27 PM