Domain Archaea
Methanosarcinales

The Methanosarcinales produce methane through three metabolic pathways using unique enzymes.

They are oxygen-intolerant and live in the stomachs of cattle, sheep and goats.

The Methanosarcinales digest cellulose and produce organic acids as well as carbon dioxide and methane (greenhouse gases contributing to global warming). They can exist as single, round (cocci) cells or in 'packets' of cells.

The Methanosarcinales reproduce slowly and are sensitive to sudden change in physical and chemical conditions. Nevertheless they are capable of growth in a variety of substrates (including freshwater and marine sediments, decaying leaves and garden soils, oil wells, sewage and animal waste digesters and lagoons).