Interest in these species is understandable since our metabolism is very similar, but this ignores a large group of microbes that are capable of using inorganic substances as their source of energy. They are termed lithotrophs, literally meaning rock eaters. General Concepts Common habitats of lithotrophs include waste water, volcanoes, deep sea ocean vents, the atmosphere, mines, seawater, fresh water. Basically they can be found everywhere.
Energy is generated from reduced inorganic molecules.
These molecules have high potential electrons that can be used to drive ETS . Oxygen is often, though not always, the terminal electron accepter. Due to its willingness to accept electrons, oxygen gives the largest energy gain and is often employed by lithotrophs when available. Cell carbon is often from CO 2 frequently using the Calvin Cycle . There are also microbes that can grow heterotrophically.