Thermophilic anaerobic microbial communities that transform cellulose into methane (biogas)

The project is devoted to the screening of active anaerobic microbial communities which produce biogas via the decomposition of cellulose in thermophilic conditions (+55°C). Twenty-four samples were isolated from different natural and anthropogenic sources that contain desired microbial organisms. Growth medium was chosen to optimize the conditions for proliferation and selection of cellulolytic and methanogenic microorganisms. During the study of biogas formation dynamics, the most productive communities that remain active during five passages were selected. The biogas composition (methane, carbon dioxide, hydrogen) was investigated by gas chromatography. On average, the methane content in the gas mixture reached 60%. Microscopic studies revealed the presence of various morphotypes of microbial cells; their ratio varied during the stabilization of communities. The significance of the research on the transformation of cellulose into biogas is discussed.