Archaeal cell membrane

The archaeal cell membrane is a unique structure that surrounds archaeal cells, helping maintain their integrity and control what enters or exits. Unlike bacterial and eukaryotic membranes, archaeal membranes are made of special lipids with ether bonds, making them more stable in extreme environments such as high temperatures or acidity. These membranes can be bilayered like most cells or form monolayers, which provide extra stability. This unique composition allows archaea to survive in harsh conditions where other organisms might not thrive, making their membranes a key adaptation for extreme environments.