JOURNAL ARTICLE

Deep-sea worms fight poison with poison to survive in hydrothermal vents.

  • Published In: Sciencemag.org, 2025. P. N.PAG 1 of 3

  • Database: Applied Science & Technology Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Jacobs, Phie 3 of 3

Abstract

The article focuses on the deep-sea worm Paralvinella hessleri and its unique adaptation to survive in the harsh environment of hydrothermal vents in the Okinawa Trough. Researchers discovered that these worms combine arsenic and sulfide in their skin cells to form orpiment, a less toxic mineral that gives them their distinctive yellow color. This adaptation allows P. hessleri to endure high levels of toxins that would be lethal to most organisms. The study highlights the need for further exploration and protection of deep-sea ecosystems, which are increasingly threatened by human activities such as deep-sea mining and pollution. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Sciencemag.org. 2025/08, pN.PAG
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Science
  • Publication Date:2025
  • Accession Number:187621011
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