The type of organism that typically lives in extreme environments is known as an extremophile. Extremophiles can thrive in conditions that would be hostile to most life forms, such as high temperatures, acidity, salinity, or pressure. Examples include thermophiles in hot springs, halophiles in salt lakes, and acidophiles in acidic environments. Studying these organisms provides insight into the limits of life on Earth and the potential for life in extreme conditions on other planets.