Use of Phospholipid Fatty Acids and Carbon Source Utilization Patterns To Track Microbial Community Succession in Developing Compost

Carbon source utilization and phospholipid fatty acid analyses were used to track the rapidly changing microbial community in composting dairy waste. Microbial abilities to utilize common plant sugars increased during composting. Community phospholipid profiles changed significantly over time. Phospholipids suggested the presence of more thermophiles and fewer bacteria with continued compost development.