Methanotrichus

Methanotrichus is a genus of methanogenic archaea. These microorganisms are strictly anaerobic and are typically found in a variety of environments, including marine sediments, hydrothermal vents, and wastewater treatment plants. The genus was first described in 1987.

The defining characteristic of Methanotrichus is the presence of a single polar flagellum, which is used for motility. Their cells are rod-shaped and motile. Methanotrichus species are known for their ability to produce methane as a metabolic byproduct. This process, known as methanogenesis, involves the reduction of carbon dioxide with hydrogen gas.

While the genus is small, with only a few recognized species, research into Methanotrichus continues. Understanding their physiology and ecological roles is important for fields such as environmental microbiology and biotechnology, particularly in areas related to anaerobic digestion and biogas production. Further studies aim to elucidate their metabolic pathways and their contributions to global methane cycling.