Syntrophaceae are strict anaerobes, utilizing either respiratory or fermentative metabolism, and grow only in the presence of hydrogen/formate-utilizing partners in syntrophic relationships.

They use simple organic molecules as electron donors, oxidizing substrates to either acetate or carbon dioxide.

By sequencing 16S rRNA gene from environmental samples (such as sewage sludge, sediment, or human gut) researchers can identify the presence and abundance of Syntrophales.

This sequencing has become a rapid and reliable way to identify bacterial strains that may otherwise be difficult to distinguish using traditional culturing methods.

The four genera mentioned previously were isolated from a variety of environments, including freshwater, brackish, and marine habitats.