Question

Choose the correct statement about large populations of organisms are centered on deep sea hydrothermal vents.

• A. The energy captured by these organisms is thermal in natural and allows them to thrive in mixed populations.
• B. Only a single species is found at any one vent, although the species varies from vent to vent.
• C. The species found at each site are usually evenly mixed between producer plants and consumer microorganisms and animals.
• D. Fungi and protozoans are usually not represented in these populations.
• E. Energy from mineral ions feed producers, which in turns feed varieties of consumers.

Answer 1

The correct option is E Energy from mineral ions feed producers, which in turns feed varieties of consumers.

Hydrothermal vents are occupied by chemoautotrophic prokaryotes (primary producers) that carry out the oxidation of hydrogen sulfide to water and sulfur or sulfate. Energy produced during these chemical reactions provide the energy required to fix dissolved carbon dioxide into organic compounds. So, these vents are precursors of biological molecules and of energy-rich highly reduced compounds hydrogen sulfide and methane. A diverse community of microorganisms, clams, crabs, tube worms, fungi, protozoans and other animals (not a single species) is supported by these chemical substances. Thus, the correct answer is option E.