What type of environments do archaea typically inhabit?

Archaea are a distinct group of microorganisms known for their ability to thrive in extreme environments that would be inhospitable to most forms of life. These extremophiles are often found in hot springs, where temperatures can exceed 100 degrees Celsius, and in deep-sea hydrothermal vents or ocean floors, where high pressure and unique chemical conditions exist. The adaptations of archaea to their environments include specialized proteins and membranes that maintain stability and function under extreme conditions.

This ability to live in such harsh settings is a defining characteristic of many archaea, setting them apart from bacteria and eukaryotes. While some archaea can also be found in more moderate conditions, their classification and evolutionary lineage strongly emphasize their origins and adaptations to extreme environments.