What do we call bacteria that can only thrive in extreme conditions?

Bacteria that thrive in extreme conditions are known as Archaebacteria. These organisms are uniquely adapted to survive in harsh environments, such as those that are extremely hot, acidic, or salty, conditions that would be inhospitable to most other life forms.

Archaebacteria often inhabit extreme habitats like hydrothermal vents, salt lakes, and acidic hot springs. Their cellular structures and biochemical processes are distinct from those of other types of bacteria, enabling them to withstand extreme conditions. Their ability to thrive in such environments not only highlights their unique evolutionary history but also provides insight into the possibilities of life in extreme conditions elsewhere in the universe.

In contrast, normal bacteria typically refer to those that thrive in more moderate environments, eubacteria represent a broad group of bacteria that are not specialized for extreme conditions, and pathogenic bacteria are those that cause disease, which also do not possess the extreme adaptability of Archaebacteria.