How does methanogens survive?

Methanogens are a group of archaea that thrive in anaerobic environments, such as wetlands, ruminant stomachs, and deep-sea sediments. They survive by metabolizing organic matter and producing methane as a byproduct through processes like hydrogenotrophy or acetoclastic methanogenesis. These microorganisms utilize substrates like carbon dioxide, hydrogen, and acetate for energy and growth, making them integral to the carbon cycle and important in ecosystems where oxygen is limited. Their unique metabolic pathways allow them to thrive in extreme conditions where other organisms cannot.