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

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

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