Methanogens that grow on methanol (a solute) produce methane gas resulting in over pressurization of growth vessels (3). This creates a potential explosion hazard. We recommend growing cultures in pressure-resistant Balch tubes* (see below) to reduce this risk. The cultures should be vented regularly to reduce the gas and prevent overpressure. If it is necessary to grow larger batches of methanol-utilizing methanogens in sealed serum vials, extra caution should be taken. Typically, 3 moles of methane are produced from one mole of methanol.
Always wear protective eye wear when working with methanogens growing in tubes or bottles.
*Balch tube refers to a special type of test tube that is designed to be pressurized and suited for anaerobic work. The Balch test tubes can be purchased from Bellco Glass (www.bellcoglass.com; stock no. 2048-00150).
Biosafety classification is based on U.S. Public Health Service Guidelines, it is the responsibility of the customer to ensure that their facilities comply with biosafety regulations for their own country.
Boone DR, et al. Diffusion of the interspecies electron carriers H2 and formate in methanogenic ecosystems and its implication in the measurement of Km for H2 or formate uptake. Appl. Environ. Microbiol. 55: 1735-1741, 1989.
Brockman F. Methanosarcina Culture Warning. ASM News 70: 47, 2004.
Sowers KR, Schreier HJ (Editors). Archaea: A laboratory manual, Cold Spring Harbor, NY: CSHL Press, 1995.
Complete Genome (GenBank) : CP002913.1 Complete genome sequence
