The family methanocorpusculaceae

Abstract

The family Methanocorpusculaceae, affiliated with the order Methanomicrobiales, currently consists of a single genus Methanocorpusculum with four species (or five species including one proposed as a later heterotypic synonym). Most strains were isolated from sewage sludge digesters and other anaerobic wastewater treatment plants. Methanocorpusculum strains typically occur in freshwater, low-temperature environments. Strains related to the free-living types are found in symbiosis within anaerobic ciliates. Cells are small and coccoid, grow on H 2 /CO 2 or on formate, and have a G+C content of their DNA of 48-52 mol%. Some strains can also use secondary alcohols.