Cathode associated microbial communty Targeted Locus (Loci)
In this study, we used high-throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing to characterise the diversity and composition of a current-fed mixed microbial community fermenting glycerol over time. After nine weeks of continuous galvanostatic operation during which correlations between microbial diversity and the respective product outcomes were identified, we characterised the production of metabolites after current supply was stopped and later restarted, as well as during a period in which hydrogen gas was supplied to the microbial community at open circuit potential. In combination with turnover cyclic voltammetry performed on sterile and biofilm coated electrode the metabolite data was used to gain insight into the electrode-microbe interactions and the influence of current on glycerol fermentation15. We tested the hypothesis that changes in community composition could be related to changes in product outcomes.