16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing of groundwater, sediment and sediment cultures relevant for arsenic mobilization

Arsenic groundwater contamination is threatening health of millions of people. Due to the abundance of As-bearing sediments deposited in river deltas, South and Southeast Asia is a particularly affected part of the world. In many As-contaminated sites high concentrations of CH4 were observed, but it is unknown whether CH4 can function as electron donor for microbial processes in these sediments. This study investigates microbial communities in CH4 rich As-contaminated groundwater and sediment. Additionally, microbial communities are monitored in sediment cultures where As is mobilizing when supplemented with CH4.