Litophiles

Litophiles are extremophilic microorganisms that can exist in the cracks and pores of sedimentary and even volcanic rocks at a depth of several kilometers. Some live on the surface of stones and provide themselves with energy through photosynthesis . Those who live in the deep, do not photosynthesize, but receive energy from the surrounding minerals . They can live in rocky crevices where water accumulates. Water contains dissolved carbon dioxide (CO ₂ ), which microbes use to meet carbon demand ^[1] . They were found in rocky rocks at a depth of about 3 km, where the temperature reaches about 75 ° C.