(Text by WANG Hao, haowang@qdio.ac.cn)
The deep sea, with its extreme environments such as high pressure, darkness, and the absence of light-driven primary production, was one of the last habitats conquered by humans. Surprisingly, these supposedly "desert of life" host a wealth of unique ecosystems that challenge our understanding of life. Among these, the chemosynthetic communities of hydrothermal vents and cold seeps stand out for their intricate symbiotic relationships and remarkable evolutionary adaptations.
As a marine biologist, I've dedicated my career to studying the development and evolution of marine invertebrates, particularly how these extraordinary creatures adapt and flourish in their habitats. In recent years, our research has focused on the symbiosis of deep-sea chemosynthetic animals, such as mussels, tubeworms, and clams. By delving into the intricate relationships between these animals and their microbial partners, we've uncovered the fascinating dynamics of their symbiosis.
Through our studies, we aim to shed light on the evolutionary innovations that enable these organisms to thrive in such challenging deep-sea environments. Our work has revealed that the host animals possess unique adaptations and life strategies that contribute to their remarkable success. By expanding our understanding of how life persists and thrives under extreme conditions, we contribute to the broader narrative of life's resilience and diversity in the deep sea.
(Editor: ZHANG Yiyi)