methanogen

views updated May 29 2018

methanogen Any of various archaebacteria (see Archaea) that produce methane; they include such genera as Methanobacillus and Methanothrix. Methanogens are obligate anaerobes found in oxygen-deficient environments, such as marshes, swamps, sludge (formed during sewage treatment), and the digestive systems of ruminants. Mostly they obtain their energy by reducing carbon dioxide and oxidizing hydrogen, with the production of methane: CO2 + 4H2 → CH4 + 2H2O

Formate, methanol, or acetate may also be used as substrates by certain types. Methanogenic bacteria are important in the production of biogas.

methanogen

views updated Jun 11 2018

methanogen A single-celled organism, belonging to domain Archaea, that produces methane gas as a product of its metabolism.

methanogen

views updated May 08 2018

methanogen A single-celled organism, belonging to domain Archaea, that produces methane gas as a product of its metabolism.

methanogen

views updated May 17 2018

methanogen A single-celled organism, belonging to domain archaea, that produces methane gas as a product of its metabolism.

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