Molecular detection of Methylotrophs from an Indian landfill site and their potential for biofuel production

Abstract

Emission of CH4 from landfills is a major cause of concern as CH4 is twenty four times more potent than CO2, as a greenhouse gas. However, landfills also harbor a group of bacteria called methanotrophs, which can oxidize CH4. They can be used for in situ bioremediation to reduce methane emissions. They can also be used for production of methanol or renewable diesel, utilizing methane in natural gas or biogas. Methanotrophs are a subgroup of methylotrophs. We used molecular techniques for detection of methylotrophs in samples from a landfill in New Delhi. We could detect five methylotrophs. Isolation and efficiency in methanotrophy of these bacteria is undergoing now.