What temperature range do psychrophiles typically thrive in?

Psychrophiles are microorganisms that thrive in cold environments. They are specifically adapted to grow at low temperatures, typically in the range of 0°C to 15°C, with optimal growth usually occurring around 12°C to 15°C. This ability allows them to inhabit environments such as polar regions, deep ocean waters, and high-altitude areas where temperatures are consistently low.

The chosen temperature range is thus appropriate as it encompasses the environments where psychrophiles can actively grow. While some organisms may survive in temperatures that fall slightly below or above this range, true psychrophiles have adaptations that enable them to metabolize and reproduce effectively within the specified cold limits. This distinction is critical in microbiology when classifying microbes based on their temperature preferences, which has implications for understanding their ecological roles and potential applications in biotechnology.