Metabolic versatility in methanogens

- The methanogens consist of the hydrogenotrophs and the methylotrophs.
- The methanogens are metabolically more versatile than previously appreciated.
- Alternative electron donors can substitute for H2 in hydrogenotrophs.
- Methylotrophs can be engineered to use novel organics for methanogenesis.
- Genetics and bioinformatics are leading to a complete picture of methanogenesis.