Methanogens
Methanogens
Methanogens (/mɛˈθænədʒɪn/; from the Greek methane, "marsh gas" and the Greek genes, "born of") are a group of microorganisms that produce methane as a metabolic byproduct in anoxic conditions. They are classified as archaea, a domain distinct from bacteria and eukaryotes.
Etymology
The term "Methanogen" comes from the Greek words methane, which means "marsh gas", and genes, which means "born of". This refers to the ability of these organisms to produce methane gas as a byproduct of their metabolic processes.
Classification
Methanogens belong to the domain Archaea, one of the three domains of life. They are further classified into the phylum Euryarchaeota. Within this phylum, they are divided into several classes and orders, including Methanobacteria, Methanococci, Methanomicrobia, and Methanopyri.
Metabolism
Methanogens are unique in that they produce methane as a byproduct of their metabolism. This process, known as methanogenesis, occurs in anoxic conditions. Methanogens use a variety of substrates for methanogenesis, including carbon dioxide, formate, acetate, and methylamines.
Habitat
Methanogens are found in a variety of anoxic environments, including wetlands, marine sediments, hot springs, and the gut flora of ruminants. They play a crucial role in the carbon cycle, converting organic carbon into methane, which is a potent greenhouse gas.
Related Terms
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