Archaebacteria used for production of methane

Methanogenic archaebacteria are a group of microorganisms that play a crucial role in the production of methane gas. These organisms are found in various environments such as wetlands, marshes, and the digestive tracts of animals, including humans. The process of methane production by archaebacteria is known as methanogenesis.

Process of methanogenesis

Methanogenesis is a complex metabolic process that occurs in the absence of oxygen. It involves several steps and requires specific conditions for the growth and activity of the methanogenic archaebacteria. The process can be summarized as follows:

1. Hydrolysis: In this step, complex organic molecules such as carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids are broken down into simpler compounds such as sugars, amino acids, and fatty acids. This process is carried out by other microorganisms, such as bacteria, that release enzymes to break down the organic matter.

2. Acidogenesis: The simple compounds produced in the hydrolysis step are further metabolized by acidogenic bacteria, resulting in the production of organic acids, alcohols, and hydrogen gas. This step provides the necessary substrates for the methanogenic archaebacteria.

3. Acetogenesis: Acetogenic bacteria convert the organic acids and alcohols produced in the acidogenesis step into acetate, which is a key intermediate in methanogenesis. Acetate is then utilized by the methanogenic archaebacteria as a carbon source.

4. Methanogenesis: Finally, the methanogenic archaebacteria convert acetate, hydrogen gas, and carbon dioxide into methane gas through a series of enzymatic reactions. This is the main step in methane production and is exclusive to these archaebacteria.

Applications of methanogenic archaebacteria

Methanogenic archaebacteria have various applications in different fields. Some of the important applications are:

1. Biogas production: Methanogenic archaebacteria are extensively used in anaerobic digesters for the production of biogas. Biogas is a renewable energy source that contains methane and can be used as a substitute for natural gas.

2. Waste treatment: These archaebacteria are employed in the treatment of organic waste, such as sewage, agricultural waste, and industrial wastewater. Methanogenesis helps in the decomposition of organic matter, reducing the environmental impact of waste disposal.

3. Methane extraction: Methanogenic archaebacteria are also used in the extraction of methane from coal beds and shale formations. This process, known as microbial enhanced coalbed methane (MECM), involves stimulating the growth of these bacteria to increase methane production.

4. Environmental monitoring: The presence and activity of methanogenic archaebacteria can be used as indicators of environmental conditions, such as the presence of contaminants or changes in soil or water quality.

In conclusion, methanogenic archaebacteria are utilized for the production of methane gas through the process of methanogenesis. These microorganisms have various applications in energy production, waste treatment, and environmental monitoring. Their unique ability to convert organic compounds into methane makes them valuable in these industries.