Archaea
고세균
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<speciesfyi-glossary slug="archaea"></speciesfyi-glossary>Definition
A domain of single-celled prokaryotes genetically distinct from bacteria, often found in extreme environments.
Detailed Explanation
Archaea were long confused with bacteria until Carl Woese's 1977 rRNA analysis revealed them as a separate domain. Despite resembling bacteria in size and prokaryotic structure, archaea share more molecular features with eukaryotes — suggesting eukaryotes may have evolved from an archaeal ancestor. Methanogens (archaea that produce methane) are significant contributors to greenhouse gas emissions from wetlands, rice paddies, and livestock digestive systems.