Methane oxidation: Processes and Energy Generation

This lecture covers the processes of methanotrophy and anaerobic methane oxidation, involving organisms like methanotrophs and methylotrophs. It explains how methane is oxidized with different electron acceptors and the energy generation mechanisms involved. The lecture also discusses evidence for anaerobic oxidation of methane (AOM) and the syntrophic consortium between methanotrophic archaea and sulfate-reducing bacteria. The mechanism of electron transfer in AOM is explored, including the role of nanowires and direct contact. Additionally, alternative AOM mechanisms such as sulfate reduction, nitrite dismutation, and metal-oxide reduction are presented, highlighting the importance of methane oxidation in reducing methane emissions.