Chemoautotrophs
Chemoautotrophs
Chemoautotrophs (pronunciation: /ˌkēmōˈôdōˌträf,ˌkemōˈôdōˌträf/) are organisms that obtain energy by oxidizing inorganic substances and use this energy to synthesize organic compounds from carbon dioxide or other simple carbon compounds.
Etymology
The term "Chemoautotroph" is derived from the Greek words "chemia" meaning chemistry, "auto" meaning self, and "troph" meaning nourishment. Thus, it refers to organisms that nourish themselves using chemical reactions.
Types of Chemoautotrophs
There are two main types of chemoautotrophs: chemolithoautotrophs and methanogens.
- Chemolithoautotrophs are organisms that use inorganic substances such as hydrogen sulfide, elemental sulfur, ferrous iron, and ammonia as a source of energy and carbon dioxide as a carbon source.
- Methanogens are a type of archaea that produce methane as a metabolic byproduct. They are often found in environments devoid of oxygen, such as swamps, wetlands, and the guts of certain animals.
Role in the Environment
Chemoautotrophs play a crucial role in the biogeochemical cycle, particularly in the nitrogen and sulfur cycles. They are also important in the process of chemosynthesis, where they convert inorganic compounds into organic matter in the absence of sunlight.
Related Terms
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