The ultimate source of energy for the communities of the hydrothermal vents is:
A) hot seawater.
B) sinking detritus from the surface waters.
C) energy derived from photosynthesis, as in almost all other communities.
D) chemical synthesis of organic molecules by bacteria.
E) algae.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The ultimate source of energy for the communities of the hydrothermal vents is the chemical synthesis of organic molecules by bacteria. These bacteria use the energy released from the oxidation of inorganic compounds in the hydrothermal fluid to synthesize organic molecules, which then provide the energy source for the rest of the community living in the hydrothermal vent ecosystem.

The Ultimate Source of Energy for the Communities of the Hydrothermal