Acetylene as a substrate in the development of primordial bacterial communities
The fermentation of atmospheric acetylene by anaerobic bacteria is proposed as the basis of a primordial heterotrophic food chain. The accumulation of fermentation products (acetaldehyde, ethanol, acetate and hydrogen) would create niches for sulfate-respiring bacteria as well as methanogens. Formation of acetylene-free environments in soils and sediments would also alter the function of nitrogenase from detoxification to nitrogen-fixation. The possibility of an acetylene-based anaerobic food chain in Jovian-type atmospheres is discussed. ?? 1988 Kluwer Academic Publishers.
Citation Information
Publication Year | 1988 |
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Title | Acetylene as a substrate in the development of primordial bacterial communities |
DOI | 10.1007/BF01808218 |
Authors | C.W. Culbertson, F.E. Strohmaier, R.S. Oremland |
Publication Type | Article |
Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
Series Title | Origins of Life and Evolution of the Biosphere |
Index ID | 70014323 |
Record Source | USGS Publications Warehouse |
USGS Organization | San Francisco Bay-Delta; Pacific Regional Director's Office |