The examination of the independent and interactive biotic and abiotic components of naturally heated environments. Geothermal habitats are present from sea level to the tops of volcanoes and occur as fumaroles, geysers, and hot springs. Hot springs typically possess source pools with overflow, or thermal, streams (rheotherms) or without such streams (limnotherms). Hot spring habitats have existed since life began on Earth, permitting the gradual introduction and evolution of species and communities adapted to each other and to high temperatures. Other geothermal habitats do not have distinct communities.

Hot-spring pools and streams, typified by temperatures higher than the mean annual temperature of the air at the same locality and by benthic mats of various colors, are found on all continents except Antarctica. They are located in regions of geologic activity where meteoric water circulates deep enough to become heated. The greatest densities occur in Yellowstone National Park (Northwest United States), Iceland, and New Zealand. Source waters range from 40°C (104°F) to boiling (around 100°C or 212°F depending on elevation), and may even be superheated at the point of emergence. Few hot springs have pH 5–6; most are either acidic (pH 2–4) or alkaline (pH 7–9).