Methanomethylophilus
Methanomethylophilus is a genus of strictly anaerobic, methanogenic archaea within the order Methanomassiliicoccales. This genus currently includes only one validly published species, Methanomethylophilus alvi, isolated from the human gastrointestinal tract.
Etymology
The name Methanomethylophilus is derived from the Greek words methano, methyl, and philos, indicating an archaeon that utilizes methyl compounds to produce methane.
Characteristics
Members of Methanomethylophilus are coccoid archaea that produce methane through methyl-dependent hydrogenotrophic methanogenesis. They utilize methyl compounds such as methanol, monomethylamine, dimethylamine, and trimethylamine in combination with hydrogen as electron donor. The optimal growth temperature for the type species is approximately 37°C, suitable for human gut conditions.
Species
The genus contains a single validly published species:Methanomethylophilus alvi – isolated from human gut microbiota.