Methanogen (Noun)
Meaning
Archaebacteria found in anaerobic environments such as animal intestinal tracts or sediments or sewage and capable of producing methane; a source of natural gas.
Classification
Nouns denoting animals.
Examples
- Methanogens play a significant role in the anaerobic digestion process by converting organic waste into methane and carbon dioxide in landfills.
- Methanogens in the rumen of cows produce large amounts of methane, which is then released into the atmosphere.
- Anaerobic sediments of aquatic ecosystems harbor diverse populations of methanogens, influencing the biogeochemical cycling of carbon and nutrients.
- Wastewater treatment plants can capture the methane produced by methanogens, converting it into usable natural gas and electricity.
- Rice paddies with methanogens can serve as substantial sources of atmospheric methane, highlighting the need for agricultural management practices to minimize their emissions.