Evaluation of hydrogen fermentation by a newly isolated alkaline tolerant Clostridium felsineum strain CUEA03.

A new alkaline tolerant Clostridium felsineum strain (CUEA03) was isolated from a mangrove sediment in Thailand. Genomics revealed that this strain contained a 5,081,113 bp genome sequence with 4797 predicted protein coding sequences, comprised of a large number of genes that are linked to several processes of carbon utilization, hydrogen (H 2), and butanol production. Chemical tests revealed that the bacteria have a high potential for utilization of a wide range of carbon sources. After optimization by batch fermentation, a maximum cumulative H 2 production (CHP) of 5425 mL/L in 72 h was obtained at pH 9, 30 °C, 0.9 g/L NaCl, and 35 g/L glucose. Moreover, this strain was compatible with agro-industrial waste, giving a CHP of 5187 mL/L (893 mL/g COD consumed). This demonstrates that environmentally isolated organisms have the potential to be used as robust high H 2 producers from various complex organic substrates. [Display omitted] • New alkaline tolerant Clostridium felsineum strain CUEA03. • Draft genome sequencing and genomics information of CUEA03. • CUEA03 was compatible with xylose, MCC, mannose, lactose, starch, etc. • Several important fermentation factors were optimized for H 2 production by CUEA03. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]