Microbiology of Composting: From Petri Dishes to Current Knowledge, Advanced Microbial Techniques and Succession of Microbial Communities During Composting

Microorganisms are the cornerstone of the composting process, regardless of the feedstock or system employed. These invisible inhabitants of the composting materials use the nutrients provided in the presence of oxygen, resulting in the production of a stable, humified product along with gases, water, and heat as byproducts of their metabolism. This section places special emphasis on the existing knowledge of the diverse microbial groups involved in the process, highlighting their functional, agronomic, environmental and hygienic-sanitary significance. In addition, the different tools, both conventional and innovative, that facilitate the study of the microbiome in complex samples such as compost are discussed.