Energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis of the methanogen Methanosarcina barkeri "Fusaro" grown on methanol and in the presence of heavy metals [Methane production]

The general distribution of metals in cell compartments of M. barkeri "Fusaro" was studied by energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis. Cells were cultivated on methanol, acetate, or on a mixture of H sub(2) + CO sub(2) as substrate. Cells grown on methanol were further investigated for their ability to incorporate added heavy metal ions. After completed growth and methane production, Pb or Cd was found to a considerable extent in all cell compartments, whereas Zn or Cu was incorported only to a minor degree. Evidence for an uptake of Hg could not be obtained.