What source of energy was found to be utilized by strange animals in ocean trenches?

The utilization of chemical reactions as a source of energy by strange animals in ocean trenches is significant because these environments are characterized by extreme conditions where sunlight cannot penetrate. Instead of relying on photosynthesis, which is dependent on sunlight for energy, many organisms have adapted to harness energy through chemosynthesis. In these deep-sea ecosystems, certain bacteria use chemicals such as hydrogen sulfide or methane, emitted from hydrothermal vents or cold seeps, to produce energy. This process forms the base of the food chain in these regions, allowing unique species, including giant tube worms and various extremophiles, to thrive in an otherwise inhospitable habitat. This reliance on chemical energy showcases the diversity of life and the adaptability of organisms to exploit alternative energy sources in extreme environments.