Thermophiles In Yellowstone Research Paper

313 Words2 Pages
Yellowstone’s hot springs are the most collective hydrothermal features in the park. When precipitation occurs, water is filtered through rock and stored underground. The collected water is then heated, and is bubbled up to the surface. The water in hot springs can exceed 200 degrees, and at times it can shoot into the air like a geyser. The color of Yellowstone’s hot springs is perhaps what makes it famous. Thermophiles, microorganisms, are found in the extreme temperatures of the water, and they cluster together. This cluster of thermophiles causes the colors seen throughout the park’s hot springs (Nat'l Park Service U.S Dept. of the Interior). Though the world is fascinated with Yellowstone, Native American viewed the park as sacred ground.