How would you cook a shrimp that came from a hot water vent?
Deep-sea shrimp are smart enough to avoid prolonged swims over geothermal vents, but how would they fare in the kitchen?
Asked by: Tom Hampton, Queensland
Chuck it on the barbie! Deep-sea geothermal vents spew out water at 350°C, but shrimp such as Rimicaris exoculata are sensible enough to keep out of this cauldron. Although they can survive quick dashes into water at 100°C or more, they will die if they’re exposed to prolonged water temperatures above 39°C. Special pigments let them ‘see’ the infrared radiation from the vent and judge its temperature.
Subscribe to BBC Focus magazine for fascinating new Q&As every month and follow @sciencefocusQA on Twitter for your daily dose of fun science facts.
Authors
Sponsored Deals
Subscription offer
Subscribe and try your first 3 issues for just £5. After your introductory period you will pay just £22.99 every 6 issues by Direct Debit. Receive every issue delivered direct to your door with FREE UK delivery.
