Extremophiles in Kamchatka: Kamchatka Mosaic: Geyser Valley(Clip)
Running Time: 00:00:25
Discovered just 60 years ago, this remote valley in Russia is a treasure trove for scientists studying microorganisms that survive under extreme conditions.
Extremophiles in Kamchatka: Kamchatka: Life in the Heart of a Volcano(Clip)
Running Time: 00:04:24
Two Russian scientists--geologist Gennady Karpov and microbiologist Elizaveta Bonch-Osmolovskaya--discuss the unique volcanic features of the Uzon Caldera, the life forms living in the hot springs there, and the important questions they raise.
Extremophiles in Kamchatka: Kamchatka: The Explorer Impulse(Clip)
Running Time: 00:05:16
This clip introduces the 2006 expedition to remote Kamchatka, Russia. Twenty scientists arrive via helicopter to study the unique microbiology and geochemistry of the hot springs of the Uzon Caldera. Microorganisms that can survive the scalding temperatures and acidity in the springs are called extremophiles, and understanding these organisms helps answer questions about the origin and evolution of life on earth.
The remotely operated vehicle (ROV) Jason II measured temperatures as high as 200 degrees Celsius (392 degrees Fahrenheit) at these hydrothermal vents atop the Forecast Seamount in the Mariana Arc of the Pacific Ocean. Hydrothermal vents spew sulfur and other chemicals that support bacteria which use these chemicals to sustain life in a process called chemosynthesis. Snails and shrimp have colonized the site and are grazing on the chemosynthetic bacteria. Jason's suction sampler is used to collect some of these animals for analysis in the lab on board the ship.
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