[Campbell Biology P.634] Which of the following statements accurately describes a characteri... | Practice Question

Which of the following statements accurately describes a characteristic of methanogens?

  • A: Methanogens produce oxygen as a byproduct of their energy acquisition.
  • B: They are facultative anaerobes, meaning they can survive with or without oxygen.
  • C: They utilize CO2 to oxidize H2, releasing methane as a waste product.
  • D: Methanogens are commonly found in environments with high oxygen concentrations, such as aerobic soils.

Explanation

The text states, "Many methanogens use CO2 to oxidize H2, a process that produces both energy and methane waste. Among the strictest of anaerobes, methanogens are poisoned by O2." This directly supports option C and refutes A, B, and D.