Here we propose to expand the search for new lineages of methanotrophs and methanogens by conducting multi-omic (DNA and RNA) sequencing in methane-rich environments enriched in uncultivated microbial “dark matter” (MDM). Specifically, we will focus on: 1) the distribution of methane metabolism in microbial dark matter; 2) capacity for facultative respiration in methanogenic archaea; 3) alternative electron acceptors in methane oxidation; 4) the potential for environmental biosynthesis of propane and ethane as well as other intermediates; and 5) the distribution of fermentation and protein or amino acid degradation pathways in microbial dark matter that feed into methane metabolism.
Proposer: Sean Crowe, University of British Columbia, Canada