Science and Technology question from JKAS Prelims, 2023 by JKPSC
Which bacteria is responsible for methane (biogas) production by methanogens in animals?
Last updated May 13, 2026
Correct Answer:
Option D —
Archaebacteria
Why Archaebacteria? Methanogens are a specialized group of Archaebacteria (specifically belonging to the phylum Euryarchaeota). They are "extremophiles" that live in anaerobic (oxygen-free) environments.
In animals, particularly ruminants like cows and buffaloes, these bacteria live in the rumen (a part of the stomach). They help break down cellulose and, as a metabolic byproduct, produce methane ($CH_4$), also known as biogas.
Understanding the Other Options
To sharpen your biology knowledge, here is why the other options are incorrect:
A) Paramoecium: A single-celled eukaryotic organism (a ciliate protozoan). It is not a bacterium and does not produce methane.
B) Mycoplasma: These are the smallest known bacteria that lack a cell wall. Many are pathogenic (cause diseases like pneumonia) but are not involved in methane production.
C) Cyanobacteria: Also known as "blue-green algae," these are photosynthetic bacteria. They produce oxygen, not methane, and are found in aquatic or moist environments.
Answer verified by Quintessence Classes faculty — Karan Nagar, Srinagar.
