Riftia pachyptila

Riftia pachyptila, commonly known as the giant tube worm, is a marine organism found near hydrothermal vents deep in the ocean. It lacks a digestive system; instead, it hosts chemosynthetic bacteria inside its specialized tissue that convert sulfur-rich chemicals emitted from vents into energy. These bacteria provide nutrients to the worm, enabling it to thrive in harsh, dark environments where sunlight doesn't reach. The worm’s red plume, rich in blood vessels, absorbs oxygen and chemicals from the water, supporting its symbiotic bacteria. Riftia pachyptila exemplifies remarkable adaptation, relying on symbiosis to survive extreme oceanic conditions.