11 Hexageomus
Name: Hexageomus
Ancestor: Membrageomus and Ferruzippus (symbiosis)
Description: The genome controls the formation of metallic particles which house the self-replicating cell structure molecules by producing the necessary support components at specific sites within the inner layers of the cell. The genome nucleates behind shells of crystalline layers as the cell grows. It translates parts of it's genome which diffuse from the centre of the cell and perform jobs in other parts of the cell (strengthening, pore formation, active sites and gates within the lattice, anti-corrosion).
Cells grow in a 3-dimensional hexagonal lattice, with the oldest cells situated beneath the newest youngest cells. The cells bud from the cell "faces" most exposed to the hot, nutritious, acidic, metal and sulphur-rich water of their hydrothermal system environment. Usually just one bud per face, but a few different varieties can produce different numbers or bunches of buds per face. Whatever the number and arrangement they are always such that when they grow they produce a consistent crystal-lattice-immitating pattern. This form of reproduction may be slow, but is more sure and stable than that of competitiors. Some buds dislodge prematurely, but are not doomed. If lodged in a crack further along the vent they can start new colonies.
Old beneath layers die and corrode at a very slow rate. The skin forms a barrier preventing escape of fragmenting cells and decomposition products. Decomposition is performed by a much smaller organism volafluidus. Some of volafluidus's products assist the preservation and growth of the hexageomus, extending the life of the older layers of hexageomus cells, which assists the survival of upper layers due to their interconnected nature. Where the pressure of decay products builds up the living top-layer can crack, split open and flake off, allowing the decaying particles and bubbles to escape. New hexageomus will eventually seed and encroach these open spaces again.
Food: Dissolved inoganic and organic material
Metabolism: Chemolithotrophic and chemoorganotrophic
Reproduction: Cell budding
Optimal Ambient Temperature: 285°C
Regions: Deep hydrothermal vent
Genetic Ancestor(s)
Genetic Descendants
Year 1,490,000,000 - Year ???
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