Decomposition of cellulose by the anaerobic alkaliphilic microbial community

Decomposition of cellulose by the anaerobic alkaliphilic microbial communit y at pH 9-10 and a mineralization of 10-20 g/l was studied. The main produc ts of this process were found to be H-2, acetate, and H2S. The relatively r apid decomposition of cellulose by alkaliphiles under anaerobic conditions was accomplished by three groups of microorganisms acting successively: (1) cellulolytic bacteria with associated primary anaerobes; (2) hydrogenotrop hic and acetotrophic sulfidogens, and (3) anaerobic phototrophic oxidizers. In the absence of sulfate, the last stage was implemented by acetogens. Me thanogenesis was weak. Dominant bacteria, which were readily detectable mic roscopically, could be accumulated by incubating the community with the res pective substrates.