Daily Current Affairs : 7-August-2024

In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists in India have isolated indigenous methanotrophs, microorganisms that naturally help mitigate methane, a mighty greenhouse gas. This study offers promising solutions to combat climate change, as methane is a major contributor to global warming.

What are Methanotrophs?

Methanotrophs are specialized bacteria that can oxidize methane, transforming it into less harmful substances like carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water. This ability to neutralize methane makes them essential in the fight against climate change, as methane has a much higher global warming potential than carbon dioxide.

Discovery of Novel Methanotrophs in India

Researchers from India have recently discovered a new group of methanotrophs in rice fields and wetlands in the western part of the country. Among these is a new genus and species named Methylocucumis oryzae. This bacterium is unique in several ways:

  • It efficiently oxidizes methane, converting it into CO₂ and water.
  • It has a distinctive oval shape and is unusually large compared to other methanotrophs.
  • Methylocucumis oryzae has strict temperature requirements and cannot survive in temperatures above 37°C.

These traits make it an ideal candidate for environmental applications, particularly in areas where temperature and methane emissions are a concern.

Benefits for Rice Farming

Beyond its environmental impact, Methylocucumis oryzae has also shown promise in agriculture, especially in rice farming. Studies have found that:

  • The bacterium enhances rice plant growth.
  • It promotes earlier flowering.
  • It contributes to higher grain yields.

These benefits are particularly important for farmers in regions like Western India, where rice cultivation is a key part of the economy.

Important Points:

  • Methanotrophs are bacteria that naturally oxidize methane, converting it into less harmful substances like carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water.
  • Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, and methanotrophs play a crucial role in mitigating its impact on climate change.
  • India’s discovery of novel methanotrophs in rice fields and wetlands in Western India includes a new genus and species called Methylocucumis oryzae.
  • Methylocucumis oryzae is unique for the following reasons:
    • It efficiently oxidizes methane, turning it into CO₂ and water.
    • It has a distinct oval shape and is larger than other methanotrophs.
    • It has strict temperature requirements and cannot grow above 37°C.
  • The bacterium has potential for environmental applications, especially in areas with high methane emissions and specific temperature conditions.
  • Methylocucumis oryzae also offers benefits for rice farming:
    • Enhances plant growth.
    • Promotes earlier flowering.
    • Increases grain yield.
  • These agricultural benefits are especially significant for farmers in Western India, where rice cultivation is important for the economy.
  • Overall, this discovery offers a dual benefit: reducing harmful methane emissions and boosting agricultural productivity.
  • The research could lead to eco-friendly strategies for managing methane and improving crop yields, contributing to environmental and agricultural sustainability.

Why In News

India has discovered and isolated indigenous methanotrophs, bacteria that naturally mitigate methane, a potent greenhouse gas. These bacteria play a crucial role in reducing methane emissions, which is essential for combating global warming and improving environmental sustainability.

MCQs about India’s Discovery of Indigenous Methanotrophs

  1. What is the primary function of methanotrophs?
    A. To produce methane
    B. To oxidize methane and convert it into CO₂ and water
    C. To increase the temperature of the environment
    D. To promote methane production in rice fields
    Correct Answer: B. To oxidize methane and convert it into CO₂ and water
    Explanation: Methanotrophs are specialized bacteria that oxidize methane, transforming it into carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water, which helps mitigate the impact of methane on the environment.
  2. What is the name of the new genus and species of methanotroph discovered in India?
    A. Methylocucumis oryzae
    B. Methanobacterium indiae
    C. Oryzomethane
    D. Methanocucumis oryzensis
    Correct Answer: A. Methylocucumis oryzae
    Explanation: The new genus and species discovered in rice fields and wetlands in Western India is called Methylocucumis oryzae. It is notable for its methane-oxidizing ability and its unique characteristics.
  3. What is a unique characteristic of Methylocucumis oryzae?
    A. It can grow at temperatures above 50°C
    B. It has a round shape and small size
    C. It cannot survive in temperatures above 37°C
    D. It produces methane in rice fields
    Correct Answer: C. It cannot survive in temperatures above 37°C
    Explanation: Methylocucumis oryzae has strict temperature requirements and cannot survive in temperatures above 37°C, making it particularly useful in environments with moderate temperatures.
  4. How does Methylocucumis oryzae benefit rice farming?
    A. It increases methane emissions
    B. It decreases rice plant growth
    C. It promotes earlier flowering and higher grain yield
    D. It reduces CO₂ levels in rice fields
    Correct Answer: C. It promotes earlier flowering and higher grain yield
    Explanation: Methylocucumis oryzae has shown to enhance rice plant growth, promote earlier flowering, and contribute to higher grain yields, which can be beneficial for farmers, especially in regions like Western India.

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