Some cave microbes live on rock chemistry instead of any sunlight
Deep cave walls can host chemosynthetic bacteria that oxidize iron, sulfur, or other minerals for energy — building biomass where photosynthesis is impossible.
Snottites, microbial mats, and acid drips mark these chemolithotrophic communities. They form the base of food webs in zones never touched by day.
Life does not always need a green leaf. Cave chemistry shows rock and water alone can power ecosystems sealed from the sun.
Comments
0 comments