A quinoprotein. Acts on C3-C16 linear-chain saturated primary alcohols, C4-C7 aldehydes and on non-ionic surfactants containing polyethylene glycol residues, such as Tween 40 and 60, but not on methanol and only very slowly on ethanol. 2,6-Dichloroindophenol can act as acceptor. cf. EC 1.1.2.7, methanol dehydrogenase (cytochrome c) and EC 1.1.2.8, alcohol dehydrogenase (cytochrome c).