Discovered in 1977, deep-sea hydrothermal vents host entire ecosystems powered by chemosynthesis rather than photosynthesis. Black smokers (350°C+) precipitate iron sulfide minerals and host thermophilic archaea. White smokers (cooler, alkaline) may have been the birthplace of life — the Lost City field at pH 11 drives a natural proton gradient analogous to ATP synthase. Giant tube worms harbor symbiotic sulfur-oxidizing bacteria in their trophosome. Click vents to add fluid pulses.