MORPHOLOGY AND PHYSIOLOGY OF METHANOMONAS METHANOOXIDANS

Abstract

Stocks, Peter K. (Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge), and C. S. McCleskey. Morphology and physiology of Methanomonas methanooxidans. J. Bacteriol. 88:1071-1077. 1964.-Pure cultures of methane-oxidizing bacteria isolated from soil, from the rumen of a fistulated cow, and from coalmine water were found to be identical in morphological, cultural, and physiological characteristics with Methanomonas methanooxidans of Brown and Strawinski. Two of the isolates were serologically related to the organism of Brown and Strawinski. All the strains required methane for good growth, but a delayed moderate growth occurred on methanol. No other substances were utilized as carbon and energy source. Nitrogen requirements were satisfied by nitrates, ammonium salts, peptone, or certain amino acids. The taxonomic position of the species is discussed.