Image for ANME (anaerobic methane oxidizers)

ANME (anaerobic methane oxidizers)

Anaerobic methane oxidizers (ANME) are specialized microorganisms that thrive in environments without oxygen. They play a crucial role in breaking down methane, a potent greenhouse gas, and converting it into less harmful substances. Found in places like ocean sediments and wetlands, ANME help mitigate climate change by reducing methane emissions from natural and human activities. Their unique metabolic processes are essential for maintaining ecological balance in methane-rich environments and contribute to global carbon cycling, highlighting their importance in environmental science and sustainability efforts.