Exploring methanogenic archaea and their thermal responses in the glacier-fed stream sediments of Rongbuk River basin, Mt. Everest.

ABSTRACT: Glacier-fed streams (GFS) are emergent sources of greenhouse gas methane, and methanogenic archaea in sediments contribute largely to stream methane emissions. However, little is known about the methanogenic communities in GFS sediments and their key environmental driving factors. This study analyzed stream sediments from the Rongbuk River basin on Mt. Everest for methanogenic communities and their temperature responses through anaerobic microcosm incubations at 5°C and 15°C. Diverse methanogens were identified, including acetoclastic, hydrogenotrophic, and hydrogen-dependent methylotrophic types. Substantial methane and CO2 production were detected across altitudes and increased significantly at 15°C, with both methane and CO2 production rates negatively correlated with altitude. The temp

SUBMITTER: Ma W 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12038898 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature