Hydrogenophilales

Hydrogenophilales is an order of bacteria within the class Deltaproteobacteria. These bacteria are known for their ability to oxidize hydrogen gas, a process that plays a crucial role in various ecosystems, particularly in anaerobic environments. Hydrogenophilales are often found in sediments, soils, and other anaerobic habitats where hydrogen gas is produced by other microorganisms or geological processes. They are characterized by their unique metabolic capabilities, which allow them to utilize hydrogen as an energy source and carbon dioxide as a carbon source. This metabolic strategy is facilitated by the presence of hydrogenases, enzymes that catalyze the oxidation of hydrogen. The order Hydrogenophilales includes several genera, each with distinct physiological and ecological characteristics. For example, Hydrogenophaga is a genus within this order that includes species capable of utilizing a wide range of organic compounds as carbon sources, in addition to hydrogen. The study of Hydrogenophilales is important for understanding the biogeochemical cycles of hydrogen and carbon in various environments, as well as for their potential applications in bioremediation and bioenergy production.