Methanococcoides burtonii
A Microbial Biorealm page on the genus Methanococcoides burtonii
Classification
Higher order taxa
cellular organisms; Archaea; Euryarchaeota; Methanomicrobia; Methanosarcinales; Methanosarcinaceae; Methanococcoides.(5,9)
Species
Methanococcoides burtonii
Description and significance
M. burtonii is an extremophile that love life extremely cold. They live at the bottom of Ace Lake in Antarctica, where there is no oxygen and the average temperature is a brutal 33 degrees Fahrenheit. (7) The in situ temperature is annually 1 to 2°C (1). It has an optimal growth temperature of 23°C and an upper growth temperature limit of approximately 28°C (1). One of the most significant findings is that this microbe has flexible proteins, which allow their cells to survive cold temperatures and carry out basic cell functions under extreme conditions. These proteins are more rigid and stable in bacteria that live at higher temperatures.(7)
Genome structure
The determination of the DNA genome sequence of this strain has been or is being determined either in whole or in part.(6)
M. burtonii’s chromosome is circular. Its sequence is RS: NC_007955. The number of nucleotides present is 2575032. It contains 2273 of protein genes and 63 RNA genes. (6)
Cell structure and metabolism
Ecological significance is carbon cycle and production of methane.(8)
Ecology
Describe any interactions with other organisms (included eukaryotes), contributions to the environment, effect on environment, etc.
Pathology
How does this organism cause disease? Human, animal, plant hosts? Virulence factors, as well as patient symptoms.
Application to Biotechnology
Does this organism produce any useful compounds or enzymes? What are they and how are they used?
Current Research
Enter summaries of the most recent research here--at least three required
References
Edited by student of Rachel Larsen
