Adaptation to deep-sea hydrothermal vents: Some molecular and developmental aspects

Abstract

Alvinella pompejana is a polychaetous annelid inhabiting the surface of deep sea hydrothermal chimneys along the ridge of the east part of the Pacific ocean. The main characteristic of this emblematic species is its habitat, which is very aggressive considering its temperature. The exceptional thermotolerance of this species (up to 80°C) has been the subject of much controversy. This review is focused on the thermal adaptation of this worm regarding molecular data relative to its extracellular matrix and life history traits.